~ Royal Doulton 'Simon the Cellarer' Character Jug 'In the White' - Large (D5504), c.1935–1960 ~
A rare and unusual Royal Doulton character jug produced 'in the white' - an undecorated example considerably scarcer than the standard painted version and highly sought after by serious collectors.
This large Royal Doulton 'Simon the Cellarer' character jug (D5504) is produced in the rare 'in the white' colourway - finished with a clear glaze over the white bone china body, without the hand-painted polychrome decoration of the standard production version.
The jug depicts Simon in his characteristic guise: a cheerful, jowly medieval face with long flowing hair and a draped coif head covering, finished with a ruffled collar at the neck. The handle, modelled in the form of a large bunch of cellar keys, is one of the most distinctive and charming handle designs in the entire Royal Doulton character jug canon. Around the lower body, the words 'Simon the Cellarer' are moulded into the ceramic in raised lettering - a wonderful detail that, in the 'in the white' version, reads with particular clarity against the clean glaze. The modelling is crisp and detailed, with all the character and warmth of the original design clearly evident without the distraction of paint.
The 'in the white' finish lends the piece a sculptural, almost Classical purity that makes it display beautifully and stand entirely apart from the many painted examples in general circulation.
~ What Are 'In the White' Royal Doulton Jugs? ~
'In the white' Royal Doulton character jugs are a genuinely rare category. These pieces were made after the Second World War and usually went directly to factory owners and workers rather than entering standard retail distribution. They are consequently quite rare, and represent a fascinating glimpse into the Doulton production process. Because they were never mass-marketed, far fewer survive than standard coloured examples, and they command a meaningful premium among dedicated Royal Doulton collectors.
~ About Simon the Cellarer ~
The Royal Doulton large character jug Simon the Cellarer (model D5504) was introduced in 1935 and withdrawn in 1960. Designed by Charles J. Noke and Harry Fenton, it depicts a cheerful medieval wine steward, drawn from the popular 19th-century drinking song Simon the Cellarer by W. H. Bellamy. Simon is shown in full Elizabethan costume, complete with a ruffled collar. His expression is merry, reflecting his role as keeper — and taster — of a rare stock of fine wines. The handle of the jug is crafted in the shape of a large bunch of keys, symbolising Simon's access to the wine cellar. easyliveauction
Simon the Cellarer was among the earliest and most enduring of Royal Doulton's character jug designs, remaining in production for 25 years — a testament to the quality and popularity of Noke's original concept.
~ Condition ~
A hairline crack is present, descending from the rim area of the hat. It is clearly visible in the close-up condition photographs provided. The crack appears to be a firing or age-related hairline and does not appear to penetrate fully through the body, but it is clearly discernible under examination and does not disappear under the glaze. It does not affect the display of the jug from the front, but is a notable condition issue that is fully reflected in the price.
The modelling, glaze, and base mark are otherwise clean and intact. No chips or restoration are apparent.
Buyers are encouraged to examine all photographs closely and contact the seller with any questions before purchasing.
