The Figurines of Overbeck Pottery

The study of the figurines produced by the Overbeck sisters is in many ways a study of their history. These small pieces appeared very early in their works, and were among the last pieces produced by Mary before her death.

Although the majority of the figurines produced were hand-modeled and essentially one of a kind, they also made some from plaster molds. These small molds were hand carved, and represent the only known use of molds by the sisters.

Figurines were commonly made by request from local patrons and citizens. One of their neighbors was known to have commissioned over 60 of them, mostly depictions of famous people such as George Washington. Other depictions included many of the local townspeople who the sisters knew and did business with.

The vast majority of the figurines were animals, usually local to the area. Horses, birds of every variety, geese, goats, squirrels and skunks are common subjects of their attention. But occasionally, more unusual animals can be found, usually circus displays, such as elephants or giraffes.

The figurines most sought by the collectors are those dubbed by the sisters as "grotesques". These are fantasy animals, often combining features from several different species into a single amalgamated creature. These were sometimes used as glaze tests, since one might assign whatever color they like to a mythical or imaginary creature.