M.I. Hummel - The childlike figurines inspired by Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel more than a century ago in Germany still capture the hearts of modern collectors, says Marie Russo of Saxony Imports, downtown.. "They have the most magnificent eyes and lips and expressions," she says. "They look like your children or your grandchildren, and that's why people buy them."

The figurines generally sell for $150-$200, she says.

Larry Fraga Designs - This is a line to watch," says Jill Cowman of Story Book Kids. Fraga sells 250 to 300 styles of old-time ornaments, and all are hand-painted from designs that he hand-sketches. The ornaments cost $22-$50.

Byer's Choice Carolers - Named for the Pennsylvania family that founded the company in the 1960s, these 13- to 14-inch-tall resin-based dolls always have their mouths open in songs.

"They're great because they don't take up a lot of space when you display them, but you can cluster them and it gives a great impact," Cowman says. Carolers cost about $45 each.

Anri - These highly artistic wood carvings made in Italy "capture the beauty of the old baroque style that you find in the churches of Europe," says Russo. "They are works of art." Prices start at about $100, and go into the thousands.

Michele Day