Royal Doulton is a name renowned worldwide for quality dinnerware, serveware, and glassware, but it’s also celebrated for its exquisite line of figurines. Hand-painted with vibrant colours, elegant patterns, and imaginative subjects, these highly prized collectibles have captivated enthusiasts and serious collectors for over a century. Their intricate detail and emotional expressiveness make them timeless works of art.
The Origins of the HN Series and Notable Figurines
Production of Royal Doulton figurines began in 1913 with the launch of the HN series—named after Harry Nixon, a key designer. The very first piece was Darling, designed by Charles Wyse, which features a sweet little boy in a nightshirt. Since then, more than 4,000 figurines have been created, covering a wide range of whimsical characters, animals, and historical figures.
Among the most valuable is Boy on a Crocodile, of which only six exist. Other notable pieces include Alexander the Great from the Men of History series, La Victoire Crowing Cockerel (a striking 12-inch rooster), The Forty Thieves, and many beloved figures from the Pretty Ladies series, such as Pauline, Retoso, Hester, Buttercup, and Sandra.
Royal Doulton Seconds and Authenticity Marks
Royal Doulton also produced “seconds”—figurines with minor imperfections that didn’t meet the company’s final quality standards. These still bear the company’s official trademark, often altered with a scratch or small drilled hole to indicate their status. Though not flawless, they remain genuine Royal Doulton pieces and are often more affordable for collectors.
Beware of Reproductions and Fakes
As their popularity grew, Royal Doulton figurines became targets for forgeries and cheap reproductions. Telltale signs of fakes include:
- Faded or inferior paint and colour vibrancy
- Run lines, translucent or uneven paint
- Jagged or messy paint edges
- Scratches under the glaze
- Inconsistent glazing between the base and sides
- Two trademarks on one piece (sometimes passed off as “unique”)
Collectors should look for clean maker’s marks and provenance records to verify authenticity and value.
Finding Royal Doulton Figurines Today
Examples of these prized figurines can often be found among the quality antiques and vintage items offered by 35 dealers at the Cookstown Antique Market on Highway 27 in Cookstown, Ontario. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply appreciate fine craftsmanship, the 6,000-square-foot century-old barn is a great place to hunt for that special piece.
