John Barleycorn ash tray designed by Charles J. Noke and produced by Royal Doulton of Burslem, England, from 1936 to 1960. As the personification of malt liquor, Robert Burns popularized the amiable John Barleycorn in his renowned poem "Tan O'Shanter" with the lines: "Inspiring bold John Barleycorn, What dangers thou canst make us scorn!" Burns represents Sir John unfortunately being crushed between two millstones and this may account for the flat-faced shape of the jug! With his merry grin after imbibing a bit too much, this gentleman is a familiar figure in old English ballads and in "A Pleasant New Ballad of the Bloody Murther of Sir John Barleycorn", he is even portrayed as a knight.
Maker:
Royal Doulton
England
1936 - 1960
Model #:
D5602
Derivative
ash tray
Size:
medium
Height:
3 1/2"