While most people are familiar with the collectable Department 56 Snowbabies, it is not commonly known that these precious ornaments are styled after an antique German-made craze that began over a100 years ago. While some of the original Snow Babies were quite similar to today's models, many were as unique as the artists who created them.
History
The earliest Snow Babies were made around 1900 in pre-WW I Germany. Most of these original models featured children and adults, crafted with exquisite detailing; some being "frosted" with ground porcelain to imitate snow. After WW I the popularity increased, and the variety with it. Japan joined Germany in the creation of Snow Babies, and Santas, elves, snowmen, children and animals were depicted in an endless array of settings. After WW II Snow Babies were made of bisque, with less detailing and more vivid colors.
Size
The earliest Snow Babies were a mere 1 to 3 inches tall, much smaller than the Department 56 Snowbabies of today. After WW I the opposite became the norm, with most figures less than 3 inches tall. The later versions tend to be longer, with added figures of houses and sleighs expanding the overall length.
Types
The first Snow Babies are just that: babies. Modeled to commemorate the birth of the daughter of North Pole explorer Rear Admiral Robert E. Peary, they show in detail a tiny bundled baby dusted in snow. As their popularity grew, Snow Babies were grouped according to their themes. An entire set might be of snowmen playing different musical instruments, while another shows elves playing amongst trees, snowmen and toys.
Recognition
As with many antique collectibles, reproductions of Snow Babies abound. The most practical means of identifying an original is to examine the "snow." Many copies have tiny specks of black in the snow. Smears of snow on the detailing and faces are another giveaway. Look at the color. If the snow is bright white, it most likely isn't a 100-years-old. The best means of identifying a true antique Snow Baby is to read and study the book "Mary Morrison's Big Book of Snow Babies," written by a renowned expert on the subject.
Considerations
There are literally thousands of Snow Babies to choose from. If you would like to start a collection of your own, it might be wise to choose a style and era to begin with. Many people collect only Santas, elves or children. Others focus on only those made between the World Wars. By defining your goals, your collection will look more "together," whether you have two pieces or 20.
Related posts
Identify an Antique Brass CandleholderAntique brass candleholders go back to the 18th century, when brass was poured into a mold in the shape of elaborate candelabras and ornate brass candlesticks...
Antique glass vases can be found in a plethora of styles, sizes, designs and colors. The actual type of glass used varies as well, and many of the techniques used to produce antique vases continue...
Many children are entranced by the way that the wind pushes a kite through the air.Air is invisible to the human eye, impossible to feel until you move, but powerful when it comes in the form of w...
Antique feather pillows are luxurious details that can be included in every home. Pillows are extremely easy to sew, even for beginners. Although many people use a sewing machine to create pillows...
The history of Rogers antique silverware is both distinguished and complex. Several members of the Rogers family were involved in partnerships that highlighted the Rogers name for the manufacture...
