Royal Doulton Figurine The Fiddler HN2171

The Fiddler (HN2171) was designed by Mary Nicoll and issued by Royal Doulton from 1956 to 1962, standing 8.75 inches tall. Nicoll, whose work drew heavily on the seafaring traditions of her native Devon, brought particular authority to this kind of character study — and The Fiddler is among her most animated and convincing figures, the old musician caught mid-step as if dancing a hornpipe while he plays, fiddle tucked under his chin and bow in full motion.

The figure is rendered in the earthy, warm palette typical of Nicoll's character work — a rugged, weathered man entirely absorbed in his music, with the rough clothing and easy physicality of someone who has spent a life playing for crowded rooms. There is genuine movement and joy in the modelling, a quality that distinguishes The Fiddler from more static character figures of the same era.

Production closed in 1962 after just six years, and The Fiddler has never been reissued. It is consistently sought after by collectors of mid-century Royal Doulton character figures, and fine examples are increasingly scarce. Replacements Ltd. currently lists the piece at nearly $500 USD, reflecting its standing in the secondary market.