The major goal of my blog is to alert people of the auctions and antiques action in the Durham area. It has been a few days now since my last blog about Macgregors auction on December 18th. When doing a blog I try to photograph a few select items. In the case of the Macgregor auction on the 18th. I aleterd myself. This item stood out like a beacon amongst the rest of the items that Mike had set up for this Christmas sale. I photographed it and included it in the Blog about the sale. I was immediately attracted to it so much so I had to acquired this beautiful near mint jardiniere. That is exactly what I did.
Upon getting this treasure home the research began. Fact is, not a lot is known about this particularly distinctive brand of Royal Doulton pottery. The Blue Children series was introduced by Royal Doulton in the 1890s and discontinued by 1930. The relatively short production run means supplies are limited, which is always an ingredient of a sought-after collectable. In fact this series ware is rare. Louise Irvine’s book on the pottery manufacturer’s so-called “Series Ware” (published by Richard Dennis, 1986). Oddly listed under “Games and Pastimes”, Page 51 gives a list of 24 scenes or titles of Blue Children patterns, the names of which are self-explanatory: Two girls sheltering under umbrella; Two girls draping daisy chains round a dog’s neck; Girl with doll talking to a frog and so on. The variety of shapes to which the patterns were applied is large, is another plus. In the case of this piece it is called “Woman by Seashore”
During my reasearch I found several pieces of this rare Royal Doulton Ware for sale. The prices ranged anywhere between $1350.00 to $2750.00, quite a pleasant surprise. I have accomplished my goal of discovering all I can about this beautiful Series Ware from Doulton, my curiosity is satisfied and now I will soon be placing it for sale. Please contact me if you have any questions regarding acquiring it. At this point serious enquiries only please.
thehamptonsappraiser 
Intrigued to see your jardineire. We have an identical one totally unblemished. It has a green stamp mark on base. It is approximately 16 inches across if not more. We would also be interested in selling it and an approximate price would be appreciated.
Hello Mr Leech,
I have sold my Jardinniere and although the vendor numbers I quoted are real a more realistic number for your piece would be $300. Where are you located. I can connect you with the person who purchased mine she may be interested in having two sizes. Please contact me at thehamptons@sympatico.ca. if you are interested.
Barry