A MAN’S huge collection of character jugs put together of a quarter of a century is being sold by a Lichfield auctioneer.
The items cover a host of famous faces, from royalty and entertainment to historical figures and literary personalities.
The collection, which was put together by Tamworth man John Perryman prior to his death aged 79 in February, features more than 300 jugs.
They will be sold across 100 lots by Richard Winterton Auctioneers on 4th August.
John’s son Matthew said:
“When I moved out aged 16 or 17 he had four or five character jugs. Then he started getting more interested in collecting them and it became his hobby.
“From then on he just collected over a steady period. He knew everything about them and had shelves and shelves in the living room, separated into different categories.
“It is a huge collection and too many for me to deal with. If they go to auction then I know they will go to other people who are interested in them.”
Character jugs depict historical figures such as Charles I, Queen Victoria, Winston Churchill and Sir Francis Drake, while entertainment stars include Buddy Holly, Elvis Presley, Mae West and Groucho Marks.
There are even items depicting Wild West legends Doc Holliday, Buffalo Bill, Wild Bill Hickock, Annie Oakley and Wyatt Earp.
Auctioneer Richard Winterton said:
“What a marvellous collection – it’s a veritable gallery of famous faces and perusing them is a real who’s who from royalty and historical figures to literary characters and stars from the world of entertainment.
“We anticipate the whole collection to fetch hundreds of pounds, but more important is recognising and celebrating the dedication of a true enthusiast for these characterful collectables.”
The catalogue goes live online a week before the sale and can be viewed via www.richardwinterton.co.uk/auctions/auction-calendar.
