For some reason most people will know of a particular type of pottery mug called a Toby Jug.
Early 18th century Toby by Staffordshire Pottery
Maybe that’s because they have been part of the national folk repertoire since the 17th century and are still made, albeit with a modern twist.
If you’d like to know a bit more about the origins of the Toby Jug this is a good place to start. http://www.tobyjugcollecting.com/toby-jug-gallery.html. What I’ve been interested to learn is about 20th century versions which cannot be described as lovely objects but they are still held in high esteem by collectors. There are some fierce collectors around and once you possess a core posse of must-haves the stakes ratchet up fairly steeply. How much would you pay for a Fidel Castro mug made by Royal Doulton?
I forgot to tell you that only three were ever made so this one is a real coup if you can get it – well worth £8,280? And how about handsome John F Kennedy?
I’m not sure I’ve got my facts straight here but a national newspaper quotes it as being sold for £21,000 – Royal Doulton, of course.
Other gems, though not especially valuable are Father Christmas Toby
Toby Who
And representing modern females Mae West – though her witticism about a gun in your pocket has not been represented – just a rather tame umbrella thing. Shame.
Who would you like on your dresser?
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