Selling Smuggled GDR Goods on "Bares für Rares": Horst Lichter is Baffled
German authorities are clandestinely attempting to transport a banned artifact from East Germany to the "Bares für Rares" auction program.
Rein rather than retired, Uwe Fischwasser arrives at the Pulheimer Walzwerk not just with his wife Hannelore, but also with a small bear figure. "So, you both were porcelain collectors and now you're giving up the collection?", the host questions.
A quick correction is in order. "No!", his guest from Hessian Münster replies. Then Fischwasser drops the bomb: "I smuggled this bear out of the former GDR!". The expert at heart, Horst Lichter, is taken aback by the "very beautiful emotional story" but stunned by the bear's impending sale in his show.
"The grandmother is more in my heart than in the bear," Fischwasser explained when Lichter expressed his bewilderment. The bear's worth, though?
"Bares für Rares" Trader Overspends Expert's Estimation
The art historian from Cologne, Bianca Berding (48), finds the intricately designed bear enchanting. A mark under the porcelain figure reveals it's a masterpiece from the firm Rosenthal, made in 1941. Despite its age, Berding considers the bear interesting for collectors due to its pristine condition.
Berding values the bear at 150–180 euros. The Fischwassers agree with the estimation. But always having the final say, the traders at "Bares für Rares" don't hesitate to bid.
Lisa Nüdling and Daniel Meyer express their fondness, but it's Wolfgang Pauritsch (53) who takes the small treasure home for a whopping 250 euros. Apparently, smuggled DDR goods are worth a small fortune!
"Bares für Rares" airs Monday to Friday at 3:05 PM on ZDF, or you can catch it early in the Mediathek.
Title image: Screenshot/ZDF/Bares für Rares
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- Currency Crisis at "Bares für Rares": Trader Breaks Down in Tears Over 50-Euro Mishap
Enrichment Data:
To give a comprehensive understanding of the historical, cultural, and monetary significance of a smuggled Rosenthal porcelain bear from the former GDR and its appearance on "Bares für Rares," consider the following points:
Rosenthal Porcelain: A Prestigious Brand
Rosenthal, a renowned German porcelain manufacturer, continues to hold a prestigious position in the world of antiques. Founded in 1879 by Philipp Rosenthal, the company quickly gained a reputation for craftsmanship and elegance. Many collectors prize Rosenthal items due to their impressive designs and meticulous attention to detail.
Porcelain Bear Figurines: Popular Collectibles
Porcelain bear figurines have long been a favorite among collectors, characterized by intricate designs, detailed craftsmanship, and various styles. Older or more unique designs tend to hold greater value, while rarity and condition also play a significant role in determining an item's worth.
Smuggling and the GDR Context
Smuggling luxury items from the GDR was common, as West German goods were highly sought after but difficult to obtain legally. The rarity and extra challenges of acquiring these items could elevate their value.
Value of the Figurine
To assess the specific value of a smuggled Rosenthal porcelain bear figure, factors such as rarity and condition, design and age, provenance, and market demand should be taken into consideration. Consulting an expert appraiser or researching similar items sold at auction or through reputable dealers can offer valuable insights into the figure's market value.
- The smuggled Rosenthal porcelain bear, with its pristine condition and intricate design, is a desirable collectible in the fashion-and-beauty or lifestyle sector.
- Uwe Fischwasser's emotional story of smuggling the bear out of the former GDR makes it a unique and valuable item, especially in the context of relationships and travel.
- The art historian Bianca Berding suggests that the bear, made by the prestigious brand Rosenthal in 1941, could be valued between 150–180 euros, making it an affordable yet precious piece for food-and-drink or home-and-garden enthusiasts.
- However, the traders at "Bares für Rares" show demonstrates that the market demand and rarity of the bear led to an overspending, with Wolfgang Pauritsch bidding 250 euros for the figurine, making it a valuable addition to the sports and shopping categories.
