Very fine air of bisque china figurines - elderly peasant couple

by Helen
(England)

Very fine air of bisque china figurines - elderly peasant couple. Hi, I have seen a pair of unpainted figurines on this website that bare a startling resemblance to a pair of painted figurines I have and I would like to know more about them.
I followed your advice to the previous enquirer by checking out the links you helpfully provided but without success. Your advice then was that although they appear to be oriental they could be east european and that the quality of the work is exceptional. I have attached pictures of my pair who look almost lifelike to me which is why I was moved to buy them. Whilst I cannot see a makers mark, both figures have the same number on the base which I assume indicates that they are indeed a pair. Any information you can provide would be greatly appreciated.
I am a new collector and this is the first time I have used your website so do let me know if you require any further information. Each of the figurines measures approx 4.5 inches in hight and the same in width.
Hope you can help.
Helen,

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Dear Helen,

Your photograph was a bit dark but with a bit of work in Photoshop, I have managed to read the label. It appears that your figurines are Japanese-made. The label clearly states "INARCO JAPAN".

INARCO stands for 'International Art ware Corporation'. The company was started by an American designer called Irwin Garber in 1960, in Cleveland Ohio. USA.
Garber had a feel for the artistic side of figurines; indeed, his own wife, Roselle, is believed to have been a model for a number of the company's head vases. In its beginnings, the company imported ceramic and glass floral containers and giftware into the USA. In 1986, INARCO moved to Jacksonville, Florida, after it was purchased by Japanese giftware distributor, Napco. They have made a huge amount of different items including ceramic figurines. The quality varies from quite cute kitsch to very well modelled pieces as yours seems to be.

I hope that this helps.

Regards

Tony
Admin