Collection: INO SCHALLER

A Legacy of Craftsmanship: The Story of Ino Schaller's Papier Mache Figurines

When Carl Schaller founded his family-owned business in 1894, specializing in papier mache figurines, he could never have imagined its enduring legacy. Over 120 years later, his creations continue to captivate collectors worldwide from their home base in Meilschnitz.

Carl, a skilled embosser from Neustadt, meticulously designed and produced templates for his figurines, which were then lovingly painted and decorated by his entire family, children included. In the 1940s, Carl’s son Ino, a trained baker, took the reins, giving the company its enduring name: Manufaktur Ino Schaller.

The 1950s saw a shift towards plastic figurines, nearly eclipsing the traditional papier mache technique. However, the Schaller family preserved the original molds and knowledge of this craft. In the 1980s, Thomas Schaller rekindled the family tradition, working alongside his father Dieter to revive the beloved papier mache figurines. Today, these figurines enjoy a renaissance, cherished by collectors around the globe.

The family business remains a collective effort. Now in its fourth generation, Dieter and Ursula Schaller manage operations, with their children, Thomas Schaller and Christina Franke-Schaller, carrying the torch forward.

Papier mache figurines, originally designed to hold sweets, trace their roots to the 19th century in the Neustadt/Sonneberg area. The production method, showcased at the Neustadt Toy Museum, has evolved from a simple flour and glue mixture to a refined process developed in the 1920s.

Creating a figurine is a meticulous seven-day process. Initially, a liquid mixture of paper, glue, and other ingredients is prepared and cast in handmade molds. As the mixture dries, it is carefully extracted and further dried in a controlled environment. On the fourth day, the figurines are prepped for decoration.

Each figurine is then artfully hand-painted and adorned with unique designs, including landscapes, patterns, glitter, glass beads, and fur. This craftsmanship ensures every figurine is a unique masterpiece, hand-signed, and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.

Experience the rich heritage and artistry of Manufaktur Ino Schaller, where tradition and innovation blend to create timeless treasures.