Hummel figurines were manufactured by W. Goebel Porzellanfabrik GmbH & Co. until October 2008.The works of Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel (MI Hummel) were discovered by Franz Goebel and the first "Hummel" was manufactured in 1935.After Sister Hummel died in 1946 from tuberculosis, Goebel carried her design legacy. Sister Hummel was born Berta Hummel, a brand often associated with Hummel figurines.
In addition to Hummel figurines, Goebel has manufactured an extensive selection of other porcelain figurines as well. A Goebel is any item or figurine made by a company in Germany by the name of Goebel. There is so much confusion between Hummels and Goebels. All Hummels are Goebels, but very few Goebels are Hummels.This statement may need a caveat since in February 2009, it was announced that Manufaktur Rodental GmbH, planned to resume M.I. Hummel production. It is estimated that Goebel has produced over 40,000 different items since it began in 1871.
