Overview
A classic English fine bone china nursery bowl featuring the 'Barbara Vernon' signed illustration of a bunny family. The rim is decorated with the iconic 'running rabbits' border that has defined this collection for nearly a century.
Preliminary identification
Royal Doulton Bunnykins Cereal Bowl, 'Barbara Vernon' Era
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
In 1934, a nun named Sister Mary Barbara Bailey began sketching these rabbits for her pupils. Her father, a Royal Doulton manager, realized her whimsical world was a masterpiece, launching a global nursery phenomenon.
Maker / Origin
Royal Doulton is one of England's most prestigious potteries, holding two Royal Warrants. The Bunnykins line was unique because it was designed by Sister Mary Barbara Bailey (signing as Barbara Vernon), who remained a cloistered nun while her designs became world-famous.
Condition & Value
The transfer art appears vibrant with minimal fading. There is some light surface wear consistent with age; check for 'crazing' (fine cracks in the glaze) which is common in these pieces. Excellent condition maintains the higher end of the range.
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Market Analysis
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.