Exploring the Charming World of Boncoeurs: History, Collecting, and Display Tips

Exploring the World of Boncoeurs

Boncoeurs are becoming an increasingly popular item to collect and display in the home. But what exactly are boncoeurs and what makes them so special? Let's take a closer look at these charming figurines.

What are Boncoeurs?

Boncoeurs are small heart-shaped porcelain figurines that feature delicate detailing. The name "boncoeurs" is French for "good hearts." Traditional boncoeurs portray a romanticized image of rural French life, with figures such as maidens, children, couples, shepherdesses, and animals. More modern designs depict other scenes like dancers, fruit motifs, or nursery rhyme characters.

History and Origins

Boncoeurs have their origins in 18th century Germany, when porcelain manufacturers began creating detailed miniature figures and figurines. The earliest boncoeurs were produced in the late 1700s by the Petit porcelain factory in Celle, Germany. They proved immediately popular for their delicate beauty and French-inspired pastoral images. Boncoeurs allowed middle class homes to affordably imitate European porcelain styles popular among aristocrats at the time.

Over time, boncoeur collectibles spread across Europe with the growth of the larger miniature figurine industry. By the mid 1800s, boncoeurs were being produced by makers like Royal Vienna and Royal Bayreuth. The late 1800s brought mass production, making boncoeurs available to a wider consumer market.

Boncoeurs Today

Vintage and antique boncoeurs from makers like Royal Vienna remain popular collector's items today. Companies like Lefton China and Goebel also produced boncoeurs in the 20th century. While some makers have come and gone, boncoeurs continue to be produced by companies like Anri and Kaiser Porcelain. New figurines feature updated looks but retain traditional boncoeur charm.

Collecting and Displaying Boncoeurs

For many boncoeur enthusiasts, simply owning a few choice figurines is not enough. Boncoeurs look best when displayed en masse, allowing collectors to assemble a world populated entirely with the petite statues. When properly curated, a collection of boncoeurs becomes a charming three-dimensional landscape in miniature.

How to Display a Collection

When displaying boncoeurs, the goal is creating cohesive vignettes. Shelves allow you to easily group figurines into individual themes. For example, you may have a shelf dedicated to maidens picking flowers while another focuses on nursery rhyme scenes. You can also use platforms of varying heights to add depth and allow more prominent placement of certain pieces.

Many boncoeur collectors use curio cabinets to beautifully showcase their most prized pieces while keeping them protected. For those with extensive collections, a series of wall shelves, bookcases, hutches, and glass front cabinets all provide ample display real estate.

Arranging Displays

When organizing your display, adhere to basic principles of visual harmony. Group figurines thoughtfully, placing complementary items together. Create fun vignettes that tell mini stories. Use fabrics like doilies or potpourri to accent. The goal is transporting viewers into the delightful world of your boncoeurs.

You can keep arrangements relatively static or frequently change them up to highlight new pieces. Some collectors prefer tidier minimalist displays while others revel in elaborate maximalist designs. There are no strict rules - let your personal style shine through.

Finding Boncoeurs for Your Collection

While mass produced boncoeurs can easily be found online or at gift shops, building a collection of rare vintage or antique pieces takes passion and patience. Checking seller sites, attending collectible shows, or visiting antique malls will turn up hidden gems. Estate sales and auctions sometimes yield lucky boncoeur finds as well.

Where to Buy Vintage Boncoeurs

eBay and Etsy provide perhaps the widest selection of vintage and collectible boncoeurs you can browse through. On Etsy, searches for makers like "Royal Vienna boncoeurs" or "Kaiser porcelain boncoeurs" will yield many results. eBay also sees significant boncoeur trade and serves as a hub for online auctions. Check both sites routinely, as treasures get scooped up quickly by fellow collectors. While boncoeur prices span the spectrum, be prepared to pay a premium for rare antique specimens in good condition.

Other Places to Buy

If you have time to hunt in person, antique shops and malls may have boncoeurs at better price points. Look carefully, as pieces get mixed into general porcelain figurine stock. Flea markets, collector's shows, and estate sales also promise prized finds for devotees willing to search.

Connect with local boncoeur collector groups, as members often sell amongst themselves. You can also find independent online dealers through collector forums or sites like Ruby Lane catering to niches like boncoeurs. Feed your passion - with persistence you can find beautiful boncoeurs to grow your collection!

FAQs

Where did boncoeurs originate?

Boncoeurs originated in 18th century Germany, first being produced by the Petit porcelain factory in Celle, Germany in the late 1700s. Their delicate beauty and French pastoral imagery made them instantly popular across Europe.

What are common boncoeur themes and images?

Classic boncoeur themes feature romanticized depictions of rural French life. Common imagery includes maidens, children, couples, shepherdesses, animals, flowers, and fruit. More modern boncoeurs showcase updated looks with dancers, nursery rhyme characters, Christmas themes, etc.

Where can I find rare vintage boncoeurs?

The best selection of collectible boncoeurs is typically found online at sites like eBay and Etsy. You may also uncover hidden gems at antique shops, flea markets, estate sales, collector shows, and auctions. Connecting with local collector groups can yield finds too.

How should I display my boncoeur collection?

Display boncoeurs in cohesive, thematic vignettes using shelves, curio cabinets, and platforms for optimal viewing. Adhere to principles of visual harmony as you group complementing figurines. Fabrics and decorative objects can further bring mini scenes to life.