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How to Identify a Gilner Pixie Elf

Manufactured in the early 1950s, Gilner pixies are adorable and highly collectible figurines that are highly prized among ceramics enthusiasts. Because of their iconic features, the Gilner elves have been frequently replicated by other manufacturers, creating a great deal of confusion among amateur collectors. In spite of the prevalence of these knock-offs, the distinctive characteristics of Gilner pixies have never been successfully replicated, making these delightful figurines easy to identify.

Instructions

- 1
  Check for a paper label or mark on the bottom of the figurine. Not all Gilner pixies are marked, but some were stamped or labeled "California," "Calif" or "Gilner." While the presence of a marking can confirm the identity of the piece, the absence of a stamp or marking does not necessarily mean that the figurine is not a Gilner.
- 2
  Examine the face of the figurine. All Gilners bear hand-painted faces, while most imitation pieces are factory colored. Look for small inconsistencies or brush-strokes, the telltale signs of hand painting.
- 3
  Examine the facial expression of the figurine. All Gilner pixies posses distinctive facial features. Look for a broadly smiling expression and clear dimples. Imitation Gilners frequently lack these characteristic dimples.
- 4
  Check the coloration of the piece. Original Gilners are painted exclusively in a color pallet of maroon, chartreuse, dark green, yellow and red. The appearance of other colors is a strong indication the figurine was made by another manufacturer.
- 5
  Examine the pixie's hat. Gilner pixies' hats are constructed in an intricate pattern of overlapping leaves that come to a point at the top of the hat. Unique to Gilner, the points of these hats are always flopped over, rather than straight.

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