Hutschenreuther: Bavarian Porcelain of Enduring Quality
Hutschenreuther is one of Germany's most distinguished porcelain manufacturers, founded by Carolus Magnus Hutschenreuther in Hohenberg an der Eger, Bavaria, in 1814. The firm produced high-quality porcelain tableware, decorative objects, and renowned porcelain figurines for nearly two centuries. A second branch, Lorenz Hutschenreuther, was established in Selb in 1857 by the founder's son. The two branches reunited in 1969 and were eventually absorbed into the Rosenthal group in 2000. Hutschenreuther porcelain is prized for its pure white body, meticulous decoration, and consistent quality.
Identification and Marks
Hutschenreuther marks evolved considerably over its long history. Key marks include:
- Hohenberg (C.M. Hutschenreuther): Various crown-over-shield marks, later "CMH" monograms; blue underglaze marks on fine pieces
- Selb (Lorenz Hutschenreuther): Lion marks, "LHS" monograms, and later a stylized "H" within a wreath
- Post-merger (1969+): Unified "Hutschenreuther" name mark, often with "Selb, Germany" or "Bavaria"
- Pattern numbers: Stamped or impressed numbers on bases correspond to known pattern registries
The mark evolution is well-documented in published guides, and the presence of "Germany," "W. Germany," or "Bavaria" helps date pieces to post-WWI, post-WWII, or specific eras respectively.
Notable Productions
- Figurines: Karl Tutter's Art Deco figures (1920s-1930s) and Gunther Granget's wildlife sculptures are the most collected
- Dinner services: Extensive patterns in both classical and modern styles
- Limited edition plates: Collector plates from the 1970s-1990s
- Art porcelain: Studio pieces with hand-painted scenes, portrait plates
- Blanc de chine figures: Undecorated white porcelain sculptures
Auction Price Ranges
| Category | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Karl Tutter Art Deco figures | $300 - $3,000 |
| Gunther Granget wildlife sculptures | $200 - $1,500 |
| Large blanc de chine figures | $150 - $800 |
| Dinner services (12 place settings) | $400 - $2,000 |
| Individual fine plates (hand-painted) | $30 - $200 |
| Limited edition collector plates | $10 - $50 |
| Portrait and scenic plaques | $200 - $1,000 |
| Art Deco vases and vessels | $150 - $600 |
Condition Factors
Hutschenreuther porcelain is high-fired and durable, but figures with extended limbs, fingers, or floral attachments are susceptible to damage. Tutter figures should be examined carefully for restored fingers and drapery edges. Dinner services lose significant value with chips, hairlines, or worn gilding. Gold and platinum banding should be examined for wear, as buffed or worn gilding is common on heavily used pieces. The white porcelain body should remain bright without yellowing or staining.
Collecting Tips
Karl Tutter's Art Deco female figures and children represent the strongest segment of the Hutschenreuther collector market, with large, complex groups bringing the highest prices. Granget's naturalistic wildlife sculptures are popular with both porcelain and wildlife art collectors. Complete dinner services in desirable patterns are becoming harder to find as sets are broken up. The company's extensive production means there are entry points at every budget level. Identify specific artists, modellers, or pattern numbers to build a focused collection rather than collecting broadly. German porcelain references by Danckert and Roentgen provide comprehensive mark and pattern identification resources.