Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
These are two charming English fine bone china nursery plates from Royal Doulton's legendary Bunnykins series. One plate features a delightful gardening scene with the Bunnykins family, while the other depicts an adventurous voyage on a wooden raft. Both are framed by the iconic running rabbit border that has delighted generations of children.
Story
Introduced in 1934, Bunnykins was born when a nun named Sister Mary Barbara Bailey, daughter of a Royal Doulton manager, began sketching these whimsical characters. Her innocent, heartwarming designs bypassed traditional commercial artists to capture the hearts of families worldwide.
Maker / Origin
Royal Doulton, founded in London in 1815, is one of the most prestigious names in English ceramic history, famous for its high-quality stoneware and fine bone china. The Bunnykins line became one of their most enduring successes, transitioning from nursery ware to highly collectible decorative art.
Condition & Value
The plates appear to be in good vintage condition with bright graphics and intact glazes. There is a small dark speck or glaze pop visible on the rim of the gardening plate, which is a common minor manufacturing artifact.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
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.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.