Selling Rosenthal, Germany porcelain beetle figurine. Karl Himmelstoss. Ceramic dung beetle. Scarab figurine. June bug. Rosenthal collectors. Totem.

This is a truly unique and difficult to find porcelain beetle (Dung?) perched on a white mound designed selling and created by Karl Himmelstoss for Rosenthal in 1948 just after the end of the Second World War. Beetles symbolize persistence, intelligence and resilience in tough times. Beetles will find their way back to their home no matter how displaced they have become. They also work hard together through droughts and storms and in general unfavorable conditions to persevere through time. I found it interesting that this piece was designed shortly after the Second World War when not only was Germany trying to heal from all the atrocities committed but the Rosenthal company itself (due to Philip Rosenthal's Jewish origin) had gone through major upheaval during the war but by the late 40s was finally almost back to its pre-war production. The beetle, of all things, appears to have been a perfect choice for the moment. If you need a totem in your life as a reminder to persevere through hard times, this might be the piece for you. Unfortunately, one of his little antennae has chipped off, otherwise, excellent vintage condition. Measures: 2x1x1 inches.