Metzler & Ortloff Figurine

Q: This figurine belonged to my father's aunt and has been in our family for quite some time. It's 8 1/2 inches tall. This mark is on the bottom, along with the number "7285." Can you tell me who made this figurine and what it's worth?

A: Your figurine was made by Metzler & Ortloff of Ilmenau, Thuringia, Germany, a company that made art porcelain. The mark was used from 1930 until 1972. The company was founded in 1875 by brothers Rudolf and Robert Metzler and their partner, Hugo Ortloff. The company made figurines, dolls' heads and parts, kitchen items, giftware, and other items. Much of its production was made for export. Your Art Deco figurine was designed by Klara Herczeg (1906-1997), a Hungarian sculptress who is often listed as Claire Weiss. She worked for several porcelain factories, including Metzler & Ortloff. Your figurine was made in the late 1930s. The number on the base is the model number. The company was nationalized in 1959 and renamed in 1972. Your figurine is worth more in Germany than in the United States. One sold in Germany last year for about $1,000.