Snow White Figures by Wade, circa 1938

Issued around the time of the first release of the movie, these Snow White ceramic figures were manufactured in England by Wade Potteries of Stoke-on-Trent. According to author David Chown (wadecollectorsclub.co.uk), Wade "commissioned Jessie van Hallen to design the Disney characters that sold originally for just over one pound per set."

The figures somewhat resemble the early interpretation of the characters as originally designed by Gustaf Tenggren. Snow White stands approximately 6.5" tall, the Seven Dwarfs between 3.5" to 4". The base of each is marked with the Wade imprint and the character name.

Dopey...

Sleepy...

Sneezy...

Bashful...

Doc...

Happy...

Grumpy...

Snow White...

The ensemble...

The ceramic pieces were originally coated with a cellulose finish, which in turn has made them subject to possible crazing and flaking. Nonetheless, these Wade figurines reflect an exceptional production quality and are highly sought after by collectors. A set was sold by Hakes in 2006 for $1,453.46.

Special thanks to Rick Payne of dadric's attic for sharing these images and info from his collection.