Wollongong's Royal Visit
Illawarra Mercury
Tuesday November 7, 2000
Royal Doulton has become a household name synonymous with style and quality, and nowhere is it more popular than in Australia.
Australia has the world's highest number of collectors per capita and is also home to the largest public collection - at Sydney's Powerhouse Museum.
Illawarra collectors last week were treated to a visit from Royal Doulton UK experts Val Baynton and Louise Irvine.
The pair, who are travelling around Australia on the Royal Doulton - The Last 100 Years tour, stopped at David Jones, Wollongong, to showcase some key pieces and share their knowledge.
According to Ms Irvine, who was responsible for the establishment of the Royal Doulton Collectors Club in the 1980s, the legend was born in the early 19th century.
``John Doulton founded the company in London in 1815. In the early days it was all about making practical pieces like bottles and jars. It was only in the 1860s when John Doulton's son, Henry, was in charge that more decorative pieces were introduced," she said.
The masterful pieces of work soon attracted the attention of the royal family, Queen Victoria in particular, and Henry Doulton was duly knighted. Hence Doulton changed to Royal Doulton in 1901.
The company's factory was then established in Stoke on Trent, which remains the headquarters today.
Ms Irvine said Royal Doulton had remained popular throughout the ages because it had moved with the times.
``The Royal Doulton lady figurines have changed over the decades according to the influences of fashion and the times, and many people like to keep them as their own record of history," she said.
``People are also drawn to the beauty of the pieces and in the age of mass production, they appreciate the artistry and workmanship involved."
Aside from the exquisite lady figurines, Royal Doulton is also famous for its Bunnykins collectables.
Disney, Beatrix Potter and Brambly Hedge have also provided inspiration for collections, although the pieces are designed as keepsakes, not playthings.
``A lot of people buy them for christening presents - many of us will have a Bunnykins bowl - but they are given as something to treasure rather than something to use or play with," Ms Irvine said.
``They really do have a timeless value and are quite often handed down from generation to generation."
Tips for collectors
Royal Doulton expert Louise Irvine offers the following advice.
Limited edition pieces: Each year Royal Doulton releases a number of limited edition figurines worldwide. After the number have been completed, the moulds are destroyed, making them very valuable.
A special back stamp: Selected pieces are given a special back stamp for a limited time, making these very collectable.
A signed piece: A piece signed by a Royal Doulton artist or expert will add to the value of the piece.
Stick to a theme: Those planning on buying a number of pieces should try to theme them.
Stick to what you like: Most importantly, it is essential that people buy according to what pleases them. The pieces last forever, so collectors should choose something they know they will always enjoy.
© 2000 Illawarra Mercury
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