Royal Doulton Bonjour HN1888 (1938-1949) - Leslie Harradine Figurine

HN Number : 1888

Production years : 1938 to 1949

Height : 6.25"

Produced in : United Kingdom 

Condition: Mint , no chips, cracks or repairs.

A Charming Harradine Classic

Bonjour HN1888 exemplifies Leslie Harradine's mastery of feminine grace and charm. This delightful figurine captures a young woman in a friendly greeting pose, her name literally meaning "hello" in French. The piece showcases Harradine's signature ability to convey personality and warmth through ceramic art.

The Story: Created in 1938 during the height of Harradine's creative period, Bonjour represents the international sophistication that characterized pre-war Royal Doulton figurines. The French title suggests the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the late 1930s, when travel and cultural exchange inspired artistic themes.

Leslie Harradine's Artistic Excellence

As Royal Doulton's most celebrated freelance designer, Leslie Harradine (1887-1965) created Bonjour during his most productive period. This figurine demonstrates his exceptional understanding of feminine fashion and grace, with particular attention to:

Signature Harradine Elements:

• Rosy cheeks and expressive features: The warm, welcoming facial expression
• Flowing costume details: Elegant dress with period-appropriate styling
• Graceful pose: Natural, unforced positioning that suggests movement
• Technical mastery: Flawless proportions and ceramic execution
• Commercial appeal: Designed to charm collectors across generations

Historical Context: Created during the final years before World War II, Bonjour captures the optimism and international friendliness of the late 1930s, making it both artistically significant and historically poignant

Collecting and Investment Appeal

Production Significance: The 1938-1949 production period makes Bonjour a transitional piece, beginning in the pre-war golden age and continuing through the challenging war years into post-war recovery. This 11-year run indicates sustained popularity while maintaining collectible scarcity.

Current Market Value: Bonjour HN1888 typically sells for $200-350 CAD depending on condition, representing solid value for a genuine Harradine piece from his prime period.

Investment Factors:

• Master designer: Leslie Harradine's growing recognition
• Pre-war production: 1938 introduction adds historical significance
• Moderate rarity: 11-year production provides availability without oversupply
• Universal appeal: Friendly theme transcends collecting specializations
• Size advantage: 6.25" height perfect for display versatility

The Harradine Legacy Connection

Bonjour HN1888 represents Leslie Harradine's remarkable freelance arrangement with Royal Doulton, where he maintained complete creative independence. This piece would have been part of his monthly shipments to the Burslem factory, eagerly anticipated by the staff who gathered to see "what he had come up with this time."

Why Harradine Matters: As Royal Doulton's most prolific and influential figurine designer, Harradine created the template for collectible ceramic art that continues today. Bonjour demonstrates his ability to combine artistic excellence with commercial viability

Canadian Market Appeal

Regional Preferences:

• Quebec collectors: The French title "Bonjour" has special cultural resonance
• Harradine enthusiasts: Growing appreciation for the master's complete works
• Entry-level collecting: Accessible price point for quality Harradine piece
• Gift appeal: Friendly theme perfect for special occasions

Cultural Significance: In Canada's bilingual culture, Bonjour represents the harmony between English ceramic tradition and French cultural influence, making it particularly meaningful for Canadian collectors.

Authentication and Condition Details

This piece has been professionally authenticated by William Cross, whose family created the Charlton Standard Catalogue of Royal Doulton Figurines. Our decades of expertise ensure complete confidence in the authenticity and accurate condition assessment.

Period Characteristics:

• Correct backstamp: "Royal Doulton England Made in England" appropriate for 1938-1949
• Painting quality: Hand-painted details showing period craftsmanship standards
• Glaze characteristics: Authentic finish consistent with pre-war/war-era production
• Proportions: Accurate to Harradine's original model specifications

Why Collectors Choose Bonjour HN1888

Artistic Merit: Genuine Leslie Harradine design from his prime creative period Historical Interest: Pre-war production with wartime continuation story Display Appeal: Charming subject and perfect size for any collection Investment Stability: Harradine pieces showing consistent appreciation Cultural Connection: French greeting appeals to diverse collectors Quality Assurance: Royal Doulton excellence at accessible price point

Display and Care Recommendations

As a quality Harradine piece, Bonjour HN1888 deserves proper care:

• Stable display: Secure surface away from high-traffic areas
• Gentle cleaning: Soft, dry brush only - never use water or chemicals
• Light protection: Avoid direct sunlight to preserve colors
• Safe handling: Support from base when moving
• Documentation: Keep authenticity information for insurance purposes

Building Your Harradine Collection

Bonjour HN1888 makes an excellent addition to any Leslie Harradine collection, representing his ability to create universally appealing subjects with technical excellence. This piece pairs beautifully with other Harradine ladies from the same period and demonstrates why he remains Royal Doulton's most celebrated designer.

Complementary Pieces: Consider adding other late 1930s Harradine figurines to create a themed collection representing his mature artistic period and the final years of the pre-war golden age.

Perfect For

• Leslie Harradine collectors: Essential for comprehensive collections
• Pretty Ladies enthusiasts: Classic example of the beloved series
• Pre-war Royal Doulton: Historical period collecting
• French culture appreciation: Bilingual appeal
• Entry-level collectors: Quality Harradine at accessible price
• Gift giving: Universally charming subject matter
• Investment collecting: Stable designer with growth potential

Professional Expertise Available

William Cross Services: With over 35 years specializing in Royal Doulton and our family's Charlton Standard Catalogue heritage, we provide:

• Harradine authentication: Expert identification and verification
• Period dating: Accurate production year assessment
• Market valuation: Current Canadian market pricing
• Collection building: Guidance on complementary pieces
• Insurance documentation: Professional condition assessment

Why Choose Us: Our unique combination of family expertise, market knowledge, and authentic passion for Royal Doulton ensures you receive not just a figurine, but a piece of ceramic art history with complete documentation and confidence.

Conclusion: A Charming Welcome to Excellence

Bonjour HN1888 extends a warm greeting from the golden age of Royal Doulton figurines. This Leslie Harradine masterpiece combines artistic excellence with universal charm, making it a perfect choice for collectors seeking quality, beauty, and investment potential in one delightful package.

Ready to Add This Harradine Charm to Your Collection?

Contact William Cross today for expert guidance on Leslie Harradine figurines and Royal Doulton collecting. Our Charlton Standard Catalogue heritage ensures you receive authentic pieces with complete historical context and fair market pricing.