Description
Own an exceptionally rare skull figurine marked #829, attributed to Ernst Bohne & Söhne and crafted in Germany circa 1901–1920. This solid bisque porcelain piece shows impressive sculptural detail and richness in form.
While some collectors have suggested pieces of this style may be Randotti Haunted Mansion souvenir skulls (Disneyland, 1970s), this example does not match known Randotti molds, which were typically larger (around 5–6" tall), hollow, and made of lightweight resin/plaster (avg. 5–7 oz). By contrast, this piece measures approx. 3.5" H x 3" W x 4.5" L and weighs 13.6 oz, consistent with dense, solid bisque porcelain.
Importantly, it comes from the same estate auction as a confirmed Ernst Bohne double-sided skull/devil stein previously sold from our store in 2024, further supporting the Bohne attribution.
We present it transparently as attributed to Ernst Bohne & Söhne based on provenance, material, and mold markings, while acknowledging the broader collector debate.
Note on Mold Number #829:
Some collectors have noted that later Randotti Haunted Mansion souvenir skulls (1970s, USA) also bear a molded “829” number. However, this piece differs significantly in both material and construction — it is solid bisque porcelain, not resin or glow-in-the-dark plaster, and carries no Randotti signature. The #829 numbering corresponds to known early 1900s Ernst Bohne & Söhne production molds used in Germany, which were likely the inspiration for later Randotti reproductions.
Details
Antique German bisque skull figurine
Marked with mold number 829 on the base
Not signed by an individual artist (decorator initials like TT/TTL are typical marks from the era)
Approx. dimensions: 3.5" H x 3" W x 4.5" L
Weight: 13.6 oz (solid bisque porcelain)
Made from unglazed bisque porcelain with hand-painted details
Subtle wear consistent with age; no cracks or repairs
From the same estate as a confirmed Ernst Bohne skull/devil stein (sold in Oct 2024)
Weight and construction inconsistent with Randotti resin souvenir skulls (1970s)
Provenance
Acquired along with an Ernst Bohne double-sided skull/devil stein, suggesting shared studio origin. While no other examples of mold #829 are documented, it may represent a prototype or concept study for Bohne’s later tobacco jar designs.
Shipping
Carefully packed and shipped with full insurance.
Adult signature required upon delivery.
While some collectors have suggested pieces of this style may be Randotti Haunted Mansion souvenir skulls (Disneyland, 1970s), this example does not match known Randotti molds, which were typically larger (around 5–6" tall), hollow, and made of lightweight resin/plaster (avg. 5–7 oz). By contrast, this piece measures approx. 3.5" H x 3" W x 4.5" L and weighs 13.6 oz, consistent with dense, solid bisque porcelain.
Importantly, it comes from the same estate auction as a confirmed Ernst Bohne double-sided skull/devil stein previously sold from our store in 2024, further supporting the Bohne attribution.
We present it transparently as attributed to Ernst Bohne & Söhne based on provenance, material, and mold markings, while acknowledging the broader collector debate.
Note on Mold Number #829:
Some collectors have noted that later Randotti Haunted Mansion souvenir skulls (1970s, USA) also bear a molded “829” number. However, this piece differs significantly in both material and construction — it is solid bisque porcelain, not resin or glow-in-the-dark plaster, and carries no Randotti signature. The #829 numbering corresponds to known early 1900s Ernst Bohne & Söhne production molds used in Germany, which were likely the inspiration for later Randotti reproductions.
Details
Antique German bisque skull figurine
Marked with mold number 829 on the base
Not signed by an individual artist (decorator initials like TT/TTL are typical marks from the era)
Approx. dimensions: 3.5" H x 3" W x 4.5" L
Weight: 13.6 oz (solid bisque porcelain)
Made from unglazed bisque porcelain with hand-painted details
Subtle wear consistent with age; no cracks or repairs
From the same estate as a confirmed Ernst Bohne skull/devil stein (sold in Oct 2024)
Weight and construction inconsistent with Randotti resin souvenir skulls (1970s)
Provenance
Acquired along with an Ernst Bohne double-sided skull/devil stein, suggesting shared studio origin. While no other examples of mold #829 are documented, it may represent a prototype or concept study for Bohne’s later tobacco jar designs.
Shipping
Carefully packed and shipped with full insurance.
Adult signature required upon delivery.