The second Royal Doulton figure to buck the generally lukewarm market within a fortnight, a Double Jester figure designed by Charles Noke, was the star of a 1000-lot collectables sale at John Nicholson’s (24% buyer’s premium) at Haslemere on September 7.
Back on August 24, Noke’s 1917, 12in (30cm) tall Fisherwoman brought £6900 against a £300-500 estimate at Glasgow auctioneers McTear’s, the highest price in recent years for a HN series figure (ATG No 2307).
The 17in (43cm) figure at Nicholson’s was inscribed to the base with its alternative title Two Heads Are Better Than One plus CJ Noke, Painted by Doulton & Co. HN 365. It had a small production run from 1920-38.