Not so much in demand as they once were, Royal Doulton figurines still have their devoted following, particularly when they are rarities such as the Lady Jester (HN1222) piece offered at Michael J Bowman (17.5% buyer’s premium) sale at Chudleigh on March 25.
Also known as Jane the Foole – Leslie Harradine having modelled it on the court jester to Catherine Parr, Anne Boleyn and Queen Mary I – it was produced from 1927-38 but is considered scarce enough to be a target today.
Examples in perfect condition are touted at £3000 and more online, while one with a broken leg and a crack to the pedestal was sold at £360 by Potteries Auctions (plus 20% buyer’s premium) at Newcastle-under-Lyme last October.