Bretby Pottery Sam Weller Dickens Ware Style Vase England c1921–24 18cm

Key Details:

• Item: Decorative Vase

• Maker: Bretby Pottery

• Character Depicted: Sam Weller (The Pickwick Papers, Charles Dickens)

• Style: Dickens Ware / Dickensian relief ware

• Country of Manufacture: England

• Date: Early 1920s (circa 1921–1924)

• Material: Glazed earthenware

• Height: Approx. 18cm

• Colour: Buff / tan textured body with dark (black) rim and base

• Decoration: Raised relief figure of Sam Weller in period attire

• Markings (underside):

• Bretby crown mark

• “MADE IN ENGLAND”

• Registered Design RD 742427

• Pattern / batch number 2973G

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Mini Story:

This characterful vase was produced by Bretby Pottery in the early 1920s, following the registration of design RD 742427. It depicts Sam Weller, the sharp-witted and much-loved character from Charles Dickens’ The Pickwick Papers.

Dickensian character wares enjoyed a revival in the inter-war years, and Bretby was well known for combining literary subjects with richly textured backgrounds and expressive relief modelling. Pieces like this were intended as decorative talking points — warm, narrative, and unmistakably English.

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Condition:

Condition: Very Good Vintage Condition – see detailed notes below.

• No cracks, chips, or repairs observed

• Minor surface wear consistent with age and display

• Relief figure remains crisp with good definition

• Rim and base show light age-related rubbing

• Clear and legible factory markings to the underside

📸 The photos form part of the description – please examine them closely.

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Postage & Handling:

📦 All items are carefully wrapped and packaged to ensure they arrive safely at their new forever home.

• Items are usually dispatched within 1–2 business days of cleared payment

• Combined postage available – please contact us before purchasing

• International shipping available on request

• Local pickup available from Vintage HQ (Heidelberg)

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Returns & Authenticity:

All items are sold as described. Returns are only accepted if an item has been significantly misrepresented.

All items are genuine vintage pieces — we do not sell reproductions unless clearly stated.

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Important Information:

• Colours may appear slightly different due to lighting or screen settings

• Vintage items are pre-loved and may show small imperfections which are part of their charm

• Vintage items do not necessarily meet current health and safety regulations

• Import duties, taxes, or government charges are the buyer’s responsibility

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Sustainability / Ethos Statement:

We believe in giving beautiful, well-made items a second life — a sustainable choice that celebrates quality and history.

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Other Info:

🛍️ Check out our other items — we specialise in first, early, and characterful vintage pieces and are happy to bundle items to save on postage.

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Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.