Heirlooms of Tomorrow Porcelain Lace Figurine Value Guide

Founded by William Bailey in Manhattan Beach, these figurines represent a peak in American-made 'Dresden-style' porcelain artistry from 1944 to 1955. They are highly collectible for their intricate 'dipped lace' technique, which transformed real fabric into delicate ceramic lattice before the company evolved into the famous Sasha Brastoff firm.

What affects the value of Heirlooms of Tomorrow Porcelain Lace Figurine?

• Condition of the porcelain lace is paramount, as any chips, cracks, or missing 'threads' significantly reduce the $125-$140 market value.
• The complexity and number of lace layers on the dress; more elaborate 'dipping' work commands higher prices from collectors.
• Presence of original gold leaf detailing and the vibrancy of the hand-painted facial features.
• Rarity of the specific pose or model produced during the limited 1944-1955 production window before the Sasha Brastoff transition.

How to Identify Heirlooms of Tomorrow Porcelain Lace Figurine?

• Look for the 'Heirlooms of Tomorrow' backstamp or mark, often located on the underside of the base.
• Examine the lace texture closely; authentic pieces show the fine weave of real lace that was dipped in porcelain slip and fired.
• Check for the characteristic California-style glaze and hand-applied gold leaf accents common to the Manhattan Beach production era.
• Verify the subject matter, which typically features seated or standing ladies in elaborate, multi-layered Victorian-style gowns.

History of Heirlooms of Tomorrow Porcelain Lace Figurine

Founded by William Bailey in Manhattan Beach, California, in 1944, Heirlooms of Tomorrow specialized in 'Dresden-style' porcelain lace. The technique involved dipping real lace into porcelain slip, which then fired away in the kiln, leaving a delicate ceramic lattice behind. The company later moved to Manhattan Beach and eventually became the well-known pottery firm 'Sasha Brastoff' after a buyout in the 1950s.