Cybis: American Porcelain Sculpture Studio
Cybis is a prestigious American porcelain studio founded in 1940 in Trenton, New Jersey, by Polish-born artist Boleslaw Cybis. The studio became one of America's foremost producers of hand-crafted porcelain sculptures, known for extraordinarily detailed floral compositions, figurines, and portrait busts. Cybis porcelain was frequently selected as official state gifts by U.S. presidents and is represented in museums and private collections worldwide.
History and Development
- 1940: Boleslaw Cybis and his wife Marja establish the studio in Trenton, New Jersey, after staying in the U.S. following the 1939 World's Fair
- 1942-1950s: Early production focuses on religious subjects and portrait busts
- 1950s-1960s: Studio expands to include floral sculptures, wildlife, and children's subjects
- 1960s-1970s: Peak period; Cybis sculptures selected as presidential gifts by Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, and Nixon
- 1993: Studio closes after over 50 years of production
- All pieces are hand-crafted and individually painted; no two are exactly alike
Identification and Marks
- Pieces are marked "Cybis" in script on the base, often with a model number
- Early pieces may bear "Cordey" marks from the studio's initial name (Cordey China Company)
- Each sculpture is numbered but not in limited edition sequences; production continued as long as demand existed
- Later pieces include paper labels or impressed marks with the Cybis name
- The porcelain body is a fine-grained bisque (unglazed) with matte finish and hand-applied color
Types and Subjects
- Floral compositions: Roses, orchids, dogwood, and wildflower arrangements of exceptional botanical accuracy
- Children and figures: Innocent, idealized children in various poses and costumes
- Wildlife: Birds, horses, woodland animals, rendered with detailed plumage or fur
- Religious subjects: Madonnas, saints, and biblical figures, often the earliest production
- Portrait busts: Historical figures, often commissioned for diplomatic gifts
- Fairy tale and literary characters: Subjects from nursery rhymes and classic stories
Auction Price Ranges
| Item Type | Typical Range | Premium Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Small figurine (6-8 in.) | $50 - $200 | Popular subjects: $250 - $500 |
| Floral composition (medium) | $100 - $400 | Large, elaborate: $500 - $1,500 |
| Wildlife sculpture (bird) | $75 - $300 | Rare species: $400 - $1,000 |
| Children's figure | $60 - $250 | Detailed, larger: $300 - $800 |
| Religious figure | $80 - $300 | Early production: $400 - $1,000 |
| Large display piece (12+ in.) | $200 - $800 | Exceptional: $1,000 - $3,000 |
| Presidential gift pieces | $500 - $2,000 | With documentation: $2,000 - $5,000+ |
Condition Factors
- Cybis porcelain is extremely delicate, especially the floral compositions with thin petals and leaves
- Broken or missing petals, leaves, and fingers are the most common damage and significantly reduce value
- Professional restoration is common but should be disclosed; UV light can reveal repairs
- Original surface color and painting should be bright and unfaded
- The bisque surface is porous and can absorb stains; handle with clean, dry hands
- Pieces with all original components (attached flowers, applied details) intact command full market value
Collecting Tips
- Floral compositions are the most recognized and sought-after Cybis category
- Earlier pieces (1940s-1950s) tend to have a different aesthetic and are collected by a separate group of enthusiasts
- Presidential gift documentation adds significant provenance value
- The studio's closure in 1993 created a finite supply, which supports long-term values
- Condition is paramount due to the fragility of the work; only acquire pieces with minimal damage
- Compare with other American porcelain studios like Boehm, Connoisseur, and Dorothy Doughty (Royal Worcester) for market context