Condition: Near Mint
Height: 4.5″ (11.25cm)
Width: 5.5″ (13.75cm)
Length: 6.5″ (16.25cm)
Year Manufactured: 1970
What you’re looking at here is a Wallendorf Ballerina Porcelain Dancer, crafted in West Germany around 1970. This figurine shows a ballerina in a graceful…
Condition: Near Mint
Height: 4.5″ (11.25cm)
Width: 5.5″ (13.75cm)
Length: 6.5″ (16.25cm)
Year Manufactured: 1970
What you’re looking at here is a Wallendorf Ballerina Porcelain Dancer, crafted in West Germany around 1970. This figurine shows a ballerina in a graceful Swan Lake pose, with arms spread wide and one leg elegantly extended behind her. She wears a delicate white ballet outfit with a little golden tiara and gold ballet slippers, capturing the moment of a dance in mid-motion. At about 4.5 inches high, 5.5 inches wide, and 6.5 inches long, she’s a lovely, manageable size that still feels substantial when you hold her. Despite her age, the condition is classed as near mint — quite a feat considering she’s been around for over 50 years. There are no chips or cracks to speak of, which is unusual for porcelain pieces from this era.
Wallendorf is one of those European porcelain makers with deep roots. The company dates back all the way to 1764 in the Thuringia region, which is now part of Germany. While Wallendorf made all sorts of porcelain items, their ballerina figurines are especially well-loved. They’re known for their delicate features and the subtle painting that brings the dancers to life. You’ll usually see a combination of fine lines, careful attention to things like fingers and facial expressions, and just a touch of gold for a highlight — all marks of good European porcelain work. During the 1970s, Wallendorf was based in what was then West Germany, and their figurines from this period often carried a distinct, elegant style that appealed to collectors both in Europe and abroad.
The fact that this particular figurine survived from 1970 and is still in such great condition makes it pretty special. Pieces like this aren’t made anymore, at least not with the same attention to artistry or hand-finishing, and fewer and fewer pop up in this condition as time goes by. The “1764” mark on the base is a nod to Wallendorf’s founding year, and collectors often look for this hallmark to verify authenticity. Whether you’re into ballet, fine porcelain, or just appreciate a bit of vintage European charm, this Wallendorf Ballerina is a classic example of both artistry and craftsmanship from a different time.
