This is a highly collectible character jug, originally designed by Harry Fenton in 1949 for Royal Doulton and issued between 1950 and 1960.
The piece is in the form of Sam Johnson, who is wearing a dark brown hat, and light brown, maroon, and white robes.
Dr. Johnson (1709 – 1784) was a celebrated poet, essayist and lexicographer. He published his dictionary in 1755, and this was the first systematic study of the English language. His literary club met regularly at a London pub and included such famous figures as David Garrick, Oliver Goldsmith and Edmund Burke.
The base is marked in green with the Royal Doulton logo in the centre surrounded by the words ‘MADE IN ENGLAND ROYAL DOULTON ENGLAND “SAM JOHNSON” COPR. 1949 DOULTON & CO. LIMITED RD. NO. 857579 RD. NO. 5906 RD. NO. 77/49.’ It is also marked towards the edge with the number ‘3’.
It has a maximum height of approximately 15.8cm.
It has an unwrapped weight of 680g.
It is in excellent condition, with no chips or cracks.