The evolution of Doulton’s vellum range, including figures and other ornamentation, was due in no small part to the technical expertise of Doulton’s original art director in Nile Street, John Slater. Slater developed the Parian body which was used for the series of vellum figures and other ornamentation, many of which were expertly modelled by Charles Noke and first exhibited at the world Chicago exhibition of 1893. 

The story of Doulton’s vellum figures begins with the arrival at Doulton of the young artist Charles Noak. It has been recorded that whilst much artistic merit had already been shown, Noke brought with him great modeling skills and it is these together with Slater’s technical developments that they would help Doulton achieved worldwide acclaim in a relatively short period that followed.

One of the small group of Vellum figures introduced is this arresting modelled on Ancient Greek imagery of a young maiden carrying water from a well. Modelled by Charles Noke, she displays all the characteristics that made Doulton’s Vellum figures stand out from the crowd.

Thanks to Lion and Unicorn Auctions for use of their images from their sale on Sunday 15th Nov 2026.