On offer is a rare and whimsical bisque porcelain match holder, dating to the early 20th century, made by the renowned German manufacturer Schafer & Vater. Known for their humorous and highly collectible figural novelties, this particular example features their iconic “Big Feet” motif — a bald, wide-mouthed caricature character seated behind two smiling foot faces with match holes at each toe.

Whether you’re a collector or a lover of meaningful décor, this piece offers a tactile link to the golden age of European porcelain novelty — and a timeless presence in any eclectic or vintage interior. Crafted in detailed bisque with expressive facial modeling, it serves equally as a display conversation piece, a smoking-related collectible, or a lasting heirloom from the golden age of whimsy.

📌 KEY FEATURES

✅ Genuine bisque porcelain – finely molded with comical figural detail
✅ Detailed foot-face motif – with match holes on the toes and ashtray mouth
✅ Maker: Schafer & Vater, Volkstedt, Germany (est. 1890)
✅ Condition: Very good vintage condition; no visible chips or cracks; minor age-related wear typical of early bisque
✅ Signed / marked examples known with “Crown over R” and model #3197, though unmarked examples like this are also original
✅ Includes accurate measurements:
• Height: [Please provide]
• Width: [Please provide]
• Depth: [Please provide]
• Weight: [Optional – provide if you have]
✅ Rare example — not commonly found in this condition or style

💡 STYLING TIP

This piece works beautifully in traditional, eclectic, or vintage-modern homes. Style it in a cabinet of curiosities, pair it with antique books or vintage smoking accessories, or display it on a shelf or sideboard as a playful conversation starter.

🎁 PERFECT FOR:

✔️ Lovers of soulful, meaningful decor
✔️ Collectors of early 20th century German porcelain
✔️ Thoughtful, lasting gift for a lover of whimsy and character pieces
✔️ Display use in vintage tobacco collections, libraries, or nostalgic interiors

🔍 PROVENANCE / MAKER NOTES

Schafer & Vater was established in 1890 in Volkstedt–Rudolstadt, Germany, and became famed for producing humorous bisque porcelain novelties, figural bottles, and match holders throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Their works often carried fine detail, exaggerated facial expressions, and a satirical edge. The “Big Feet” match holder, sometimes titled “A Happy Lot,” is one of their most enduring comic designs.
Marked examples may carry a crown over “R” symbol or the number 3197, but many were sold unmarked. Caution is advised, as reproductions were later made in Belgium by Mudial — your piece is an authentic German original, made circa 1910–1930.

Reference: Piers Motley Auctions; Ruby Lane; Schafer & Vater Collectors’ Society

📏 MEASUREMENTS

• Height: 3 inches tall.

📦 SHIPPING & INTERNATIONAL BUYERS

We ship worldwide using tracked, insured services. Shipping is calculated at checkout based on your location — no surprises. All items are securely packed with care and experience.

📌 WHY IT MATTERS

This is more than an object — it’s a piece of lived history and joyful craftsmanship, captured in material and form. Rare to find in such appealing condition, and seldom offered with this level of charm. Ideal for those who value provenance, patina, and the stories objects carry.

stock code 140825