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Royal Doulton Prototype Figurine, Model 1275

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:250.00 USD Estimated At:1,000.00 - 5,000.00 USD
Royal Doulton Prototype Figurine, Model 1275
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Modelled by the talented Roy Charles Asplin, this early prototype version was blocked in June 1945, this month marking its 80th birthday! This prototype is model 1275, whereas the version produced without the man and the Belle in different colours was model 1286, indicating that the original model was swiftly disgraced and swiftly remodelled without the male figure. Interestingly the produced model of just the ladybug the sofa was not introduced until 1947.

This delightful model makes perfect sense with the Belle and her suitor paying court to her! One can trace this model not only through a late 1930s blocking book but also the original shape model book. In the latter, one can see that the number 1275 was soon reassigned to one of Peggy Davies' small pig models.

As with all prototypes the modelling is not only crisper but the detail in the painting is exceptional, as these prototypes were painted only by their most established and trusted artists.

Roy Charles Asplin is perhaps not a name many know in connection with Royal Doulton but he was in fact apprenticed to the company before emigrating to Canada where he lived out his life until 2014. Born in 1925 in Hanley, one of the famous Six Towns that make up Stoke-on-Trent, his years with Royal Doulton set his career path as he continued to model and produce figures as well as character jugs and even statues. His style of Royal Doulton figures is quite different to his contemporaries Leslie Harradine and Peggy Davies, and here is a photograph of him from 1943 at the age of 18 modelling a further prototype duo after the ballet stars Moira Shearer and Alexis Rassine.

Issued: 20th century
Dimensions: 9.5"L x 5.75"L x 7"H
Country of Origin: England

Condition: Age related wear.