Royal Doulton 'Monica' Porcelain Figurine (HN 1467)

This is a fine bone china figurine entitled 'Monica', famously produced by Royal Doulton. The piece portrays a young woman in a mid-19th-century style dress, characterized by a vibrant red bodice and a voluminous, tiered skirt that transitions from deep rose to soft white. She is depicted in a graceful pose, lifting one side of her skirt while looking down at a small, attentive white and brown dog at her feet. The figurine features a high-gloss glazed finish, which is a hallmark of the Royal Doulton aesthetic. Her brunette hair is neatly styled with a small pink floral accent. The craftsmanship is evident in the delicate facial features and the fluid movement suggested by the ruffles of the dress. Based on the style and typical markings of this specific series, it was likely designed by Leslie Harradine and dates back to the mid-20th century, specifically between the 1930s and 1950s. The piece appears to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible chips, cracks, or crazing, maintaining its original luster and color saturation. The underside should theoretically bear the Royal Doulton lion and crown backstamp along with the 'HN' model number typical of the 'Pretty Ladies' collection.

Based on my visual examination of this Royal Doulton 'Monica' (HN 1467) figurine, I find it to be a classic example of Leslie Harradine’s 'Pretty Ladies' series. The vibrant deep red bodice and soft-tiered skirt are rendered with the high-gloss glaze synonymous with mid-20th-century Doulton craftsmanship. The condition appears exemplary; the glaze is free of the crazing often seen in pieces from the 1930s-50s, and the delicate floral accents in the hair remain intact. Authenticity is supported by the specific modeling of the companion dog and the fluid draping of the skirt, which are consistent with genuine HN 1467 production standards. Currently, the market for mid-century Royal Doulton has stabilized. While 'Monica' was once a high-demand piece, its prolific production period makes it accessible rather than rare. Recent auction comparables for this model in excellent condition typically range from $85 to $160. The value is buoyed by the popular red-colorway, which tends to attract more interest than the less vibrant green variants. Limitation Statement: This appraisal is based solely on digital images. A definitive valuation is subject to an in-person inspection to verify the 'Royal Doulton' backstamp and model number, which confirm the production era. Under physical examination, I would use a UV light filter to detect professional restorations or 'invisible' repairs to the neck and dog’s ears. Final authentication would also require checking for tactile inconsistencies in the glaze that might indicate a high-quality reproduction. Provenance documentation, such as original sales receipts or family history, would further solidify its market standing.