Decanter, Schäfer & Vater, Figural Clown with Duck, Hand Painted, Thuringia Germany, Antique, 1930s-1940s

A clown in a wide-brimmed hat, clutching a duck with the quiet confidence of someone who has done this before. This is Schäfer & Vater at their most characteristic — absurd, charming, and executed with the kind of porcelain craftsmanship that made their Thuringian factory one of the most celebrated in Germany from 1890 until their closure in 1962.
The piece is hand-painted in bright, bold colors with the velvety smooth texture that is the hallmark of Schäfer & Vater's local kaolin-rich clay. The large hat serves as the stopper. The bottom is impressed "Germany" and carries a sticker reading "Genuine Hand Painted Germany." The back bears mold number 7076-I. While many Schäfer & Vater pieces were unmarked, these details confirm its authenticity. At 9 inches tall it is a commanding presence — equal parts conversation piece, bar decor, and genuine antique.
This is a pre-World War II piece, dating to the 1930s or 1940s, from a factory whose records and molds were destroyed by the East German government in 1973. What survives is what collectors have managed to preserve. This is one of those pieces.
Please note condition issues: there is discoloration at the bottom, a large crack on the back that extends up from the base, a minor chip on the hat rim, and minor crazing — all consistent with age and all photographed for you. Cork is in good condition. Priced accordingly for a piece of this rarity and age.
A magnificent gift for the serious collector, the antique barware enthusiast, or any dad who appreciates the kind of piece that auction houses get excited about.
Schäfer & Vater Porcelain Factory was founded in 1890 by Gustav Schäfer and Gunther Vater in Rudolstadt, Thuringia, Germany. Known for their comical figural bottles, jugs, teapots, and vases, they became one of the most beloved German porcelain makers of the early 20th century. Sears Roebuck began importing their pieces to the USA in 1910. A fire destroyed the factory in 1918 but they rebuilt and continued expanding. Production slowed dramatically in the 1950s and ceased entirely in 1962. In 1973 the East German government took control of the vacant factory and destroyed all company records and molds — making surviving marked pieces increasingly rare and valuable.

Brand: Schäfer & Vater, Thuringia, Germany
Made in: Germany
Vintage: 1930s–1940s
Dimensions: 9.0" tall | approx. 3.5" wide
Material: Porcelain, hand-painted
Condition: As described — crack on back extending from base, discoloration at bottom, minor chip on hat rim, minor crazing. Cork in good condition. All photographed. Please review all photos carefully — we cannot accept returns.