The blisters are appearing in exactly and only in the areas where I brushed up against the plant. I felt the quick little sting when I brushed up against it at the time (similar to brushing up against a thistle or rosebush - like small, innocuous scratches), which only developed into blisters the next day. I have no known allergies (plant, food, latex, etc). Though maybe I have a special sensitivity to whatever this plant is! Thanks for the help!! :)

Hi, Troubador-- While I certainly hope that your heirloom is Meissen, it's been my experience with this sort of bisque that most people call it Meissen whether it is necessarily Meissen or not. The J I think you mention does indicate it's probably German. (I collect bisque pieces like these myself.) But I haven't had much luck in finding out any history on them in general. In a similar quest to yours, I'd written up what I DID know about my one one of my web pages, hoping to find some answers. If you have a spare moment, you can view my collection at the link below I wish you luck. I'm glad to hear you say you want to keep them, and not sell them. -Jenn Here is a link that might be useful: My Collection of German-Art Nouveau Bisque

Your most reliable source would be the builder of that model home. Since it is new there should be no problem finding the reference number.

Also known as Heal-all, Prunella vulgaris is used in herbal medicine and the leaves are edible.