My parents are collectors. My siblings and I joke that when they are gone someday, we will just open an antique store right in their house! I think my dad's favorite collection is his assortment of Charles Dickens memorabilia.
You see, my dad is an actor and his favorite role is
Ebenezer Scrooge. He has been performing a one man show of A Christmas Carol for over 40 years. So naturally he started collecting Charles Dickens memorabilia too. Many English companies make figurines, plates, mugs, prints, and plaques of all of the wonderful characters Charles Dickens created. Plus of course, there are hundreds and hundreds of beautifully bound vintage books to be found.
Here is a photo of my dad as Ebenezer Scrooge.
These tiny figurines are made by Sebastian Miniatures. According to their website, Sebastian Miniatures have been in production continuously since 1938 and are still being designed and made today making them the longest continuous running American made collectible. They made over 20 figurines in the Dickens series including a cottage.
The older pieces have a hexagonal base and are marked patent pending. You can learn more about these charming collectibles Here.
The Royal Doulton company also made 25 charming figurines from 1922-1983 featuring Dickens characters. You can learn more about them on the Royal Doulton website.
Here are Tiny Tim and Scrooge.
The Doulton pieces are all marked on the bottom. The marks vary depending on what year they were made.
My dad also played the role of Fagin from Oliver Twist.
Another popular Dickens collectible are the Royal Doulton character or Toby Jugs. They were first introduced in 1934 in the Burslem Pottery at Stoke-on Trent. The jugs were made in several different sizes from miniature to large.
Charles Dickens is one of the most beloved authors in the world which is reflected in the extensive variety of collectibles out there!
This portrait is of Dad as Charles Dickens.
And to repeat one of the most quoted phrases of Dickens,
"God bless us , every one!"
I like to join
You speak to my heart! I have been a Dickens fan for many years, and have read all of his works, repeatedly. And like your father, I've been collecting memorabilia based on the many wonderful, unforgettable characters. . . Charles Dickens himself was an actor (as I'm sure you know), and was quite the observer of people and places. IMO, no one drew a finer illustration with words. Your father makes a GREAT Dickens. Must be a real treat to see him perform. Thank you for sharing this!
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun post! And your Dad is an actor and a lover of Dickens ... besides looking the part of Scrooge!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great collection.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for sharing at AMAZE ME MONDAY!
Blessings,
Cindy