(4) English Royal Doulton Figural Ceramic Toby Jugs. Marked as Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (a rare two-faced mug capitalizing on the literary character), Happy John, Sir John Falstaff, and Old Charlie on the undersides, along with the Royal Doulton insignia. 

Condition: Minor surface rubbing on one piece. 

Largest Size: 3 x 4 x 5 1/2 in. 

A Toby Jug, also known as a character jug, is a type of collectible ceramic drinking pitcher featuring the likeness of a person, often inspired by fictional characters, iconic celebrities, historical figures, and even animals. A staple of the British antique world, these unique vessels originated in the early 18th Century and have since become highly sought-after by collectors worldwide. Their original creation is usually attributed to John Astbury or Thomas Wheildon, although it is not certain when they first appeared or where. Early Toby jug makers included Ralph Wood, Whieldon, Walton, and Hollins and Astbury, but Royal Doulton is arguably the most well-known manufacturer of them, having started to mass produce them in the early 1900s and still making them today. Production increased in the 1930s following the success of Charles Nokes’ very popular Kingsware series, and once a collectors market emerged in the 1950s the demand for the jugs skyrocketed further. Pieces modeled after royalty and famous movie stars traditionally commanded excellent prices, and today particularly rare examples or unfinished prototypes can fetch thousands of pounds at auction, although the market is still less well known outside the United Kingdom.

Minor surface rubbing on one piece. 

All items are sold AS IS. Lot and condition details are for descriptive purposes only. Sarasota Estate Auction is not responsible for errors and/or omissions of condition. The absence of a condition report does not imply that the lot is perfect or free from wear, flaws, or characteristics of age. Please bid according to your own expertise, or request any additional information and/or photographs you deem necessary.