In 1815, John Doulton dared to dream. He invested his life savings, £100, into a humble pottery operation in the Lambeth area of London. From this modest beginning, crafting storage jars and sewage pipes, a titan was born: Royal Doulton, a global leader in the design and manufacture of fine tableware.

Doulton's legacy is a tapestry of innovation, from pioneering new materials and glazing techniques to collaborating with artists and designers. John Doulton didn't just invest his money; he invested his faith in a dream. Today, Royal Doulton is not merely a brand but the embodiment of that dream: a testament to the vision, craftsmanship, and a passion that transformed the world of ceramics and home decor.

Join us as we dive into the fascinating history of Royal Doulton and their beloved figurines and character jugs, and discover the secrets to caring for and maintaining your own collection.

The Early Years: The Birth of Royal Doulton and Their Pottery Legacy

In the early years, Royal Doulton was known simply as Doulton. The company was founded in 1815 by John Doulton, who was a potter by trade, and his partner John Watts, who was an entrepreneur. The company was initially focused on making stoneware and ceramic pipes, but as they gained more experience and recognition, they began to expand their product line. By the 1870s, Doulton was producing a range of decorative objects, including vases, jugs, and figurines, all of which were hand-painted and finished with great care. The company continued to grow and innovate, and in 1901, they were granted a royal warrant by King Edward VII, allowing them to use the prefix "Royal" in their name. This was a great honor for the company and a testament to the quality of their work. Over the years, Royal Doulton became known for their exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, and their products were highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts around the world.

The Rise of Character Jugs: How Royal Doulton Brought Humor and Personality to the Table

John Doulton began experimenting with stoneware jugs in the early 19th century, designing reliefs of popular figures such as Toby Fillpot enjoying ale. The 1840s saw the creation of the first Doulton character jug, an homage to the revered naval hero, Lord Nelson. The tradition of crafting character jugs continued with the introduction of the Toby Jug in the 1860s, capturing the jovial spirit of an ale-drinking patron.

The turn of the 20th century saw the rise of renowned figure modeler, Leslie Harradine, who created a series of character jugs, including Theodore Roosevelt and Mr. Pecksmiff. The 1930s marked the advent of face jugs, later known as Character Jugs, under the inventive direction of Charles Noke. The first character jug, John Barleycorn, symbolizing malt liquor, was unveiled in 1934. 

The Enduring Popularity of Royal Doulton Figurines

Royal Doulton figurines have captured the hearts and imaginations of collectors for over a century. Their unique designs and attention to detail have made them highly sought after by collectors around the world. But what is it that makes Royal Doulton figurines so enduringly popular?

Part of the answer lies in their ability to capture a moment in time. Each figurine tells a story, whether it's a scene from a classic novel, a depiction of a beloved character, or a celebration of a cultural icon. By capturing these moments, Royal Doulton figurines create a connection with their collectors that lasts a lifetime. And with each new figurine released, the collection becomes more diverse and fascinating, drawing in new collectors with every passing year.

Maintaining Your Collection: Tips and Tricks from Pascoe & Company, Your Trusted Royal Doulton Experts

As passionate collectors ourselves, we at Pascoe & Company understand the value and importance of caring for your Royal Doulton figurines and character jugs. Whether you've inherited a cherished collection or are just starting out, we want to share our expertise and knowledge to help you keep your pieces looking their best for years to come.

One of the most important things to keep in mind is proper handling. Always use clean hands and handle your figurines and character jugs with care, avoiding holding them by the fragile parts. We recommend using soft cotton gloves or a clean cloth to minimize fingerprints and smudges. When storing your collection, be sure to keep them away from direct sunlight, heat, moisture, and extreme temperatures. You can use acid-free tissue paper, bubble wrap, or a foam-lined case to protect them from scratches, dust, and other elements.

Cleaning your collection should also be approached with care. Use a soft-bristled brush or a feather duster to remove dust and debris, avoiding water, chemicals, or abrasive materials that can damage the delicate surfaces and colors. For stubborn stains or discolorations, seek professional restoration services.

Displaying your collection is an important part of enjoying and appreciating your pieces. To avoid sun-fading and uneven wear, we recommend rotating your figurines and character jugs regularly, and displaying them in a well-lit, dust-free, and ventilated area. Use museum putty or other non-permanent adhesives to secure them in place and prevent accidental falls.

At Pascoe & Company, we take pride in offering not only the finest and most beautiful Royal Doulton pieces, but also the expertise and guidance to help you care for and maintain your collection. If you have any questions or concerns about the care of your figurines and character jugs, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Disclaimer: The images used in this video are from British Pathé's video titled Character Jugs (1955). We do not own the rights to these images and they are used solely for the educational and informational purpose of illustrating the manufacturing process. For more information about the original video, please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIjGY12EubA&t=2s.