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Rare Pair of Early California Ceramic Figurines by Muriel JosephA rare and charming pair of early California ceramic figurines by Muriel Joseph George, founder of Josef Originals.Production Period: Late 1940s–early 1950s
Origin: California, USABoth figurines feature a handwritten “Muriel” signature on the underside, painted in white over the matte black base. This early signature is associated with Muriel Joseph’s early California workshop production, before manufacturing was later moved to Japan.The figurines feature delicate hand-painted facial details, including fine eyelashes, thin eyebrows and soft blush.The ceramic has a rich, deep high-gloss “wet-look” glaze, characteristic of early American ceramic workshop production. The glaze has a substantial, glossy finish typical of this early period.The decorative accents are executed in vibrant 24-karat liquid gold, including the girl’s shoes, collars and clothing details. The high-quality gold decoration gives these early pieces an elegant, jewelry-like appearance.These early California examples are distinctly different from the later mass-produced Josef Originals Japan pieces, which commonly feature the familiar simplified “bead-eye” style.Height:
• Girl — 8 inches
• Boy — 9 inchesCondition: Excellent vintage condition. No chips. There is characteristic age-related crazing in the glaze.A sweet and rare pair!
