The Royal Doulton Beswick Sporting Characters collection, brilliantly designed by Andy Moss and produced exclusively for Sinclairs, offers a playful twist on the world of sports through a series of ceramic figurines, each limited to 1,500 pieces. The set of 6 models was introduced from 1998 to 2000.

This delightful collection cleverly utilizes puns in the names and choices of animals to add a layer of humor and wit to each piece. For instance, “Last Lion of Defence” features a lion as a rugby player, riffing on the phrase “last line of defence,” while the other figures similarly blend sport with clever wordplay, bringing an extra dimension of charm to the classic art of ceramics.

Starting the lineup is “Fly Fishing” SC1, featuring a frog fully engaged in the sport, outfitted in a classic fisherman’s vest, skillfully casting a line. Issued in 1998, this figure beautifully captures the tranquility and focus of fly fishing, a testament to Moss’s attention to detail and his ability to animate his subjects in a naturalistic setting.

The second figure, also from 1998, “Last Lion of Defence” SC2, portrays a lion as a rugby player, dressed in a vivid red jersey. The lion’s pose, poised for action, perfectly embodies the power and dynamism of rugby, reflecting the sport’s intense energy.

“It’s a Knockout” SC3 showcases a Boxer dog as a boxer, gloves up and ready for the ring. This figurine conveys the toughness and resolve of boxing, portrayed through the dog’s sturdy stance and eager expression, making it a standout piece in the collection. This was the final figure released in 1998.

“Sloping Off” SC4 features a polar bear engaging in skiing. The bear’s improbable balance and the smooth depiction of motion lend a playful yet graceful air to the piece, capturing the sport’s exhilarating spirit. This was the only issue of the series in 1999.

The final two figures were released in 2000. “A Round with Foxy” SC5 presents a fox in golf attire, executing a perfect swing. Dressed in a vest and pants, this fox epitomizes the elegance and precision of golf, Moss’s craftsmanship highlighting the poised demeanor typical of the sport.

Finally, “Out for a Duck” SC6 depicts a duck playing cricket, bat in hand and ready to hit. This figure humorously combines the competitive nature of cricket with the lighthearted choice of a duck, bringing a whimsical twist to the classic game.

Each figure in the Royal Doulton Beswick Sporting Characters collection is a testament to the fusion of traditional ceramic art with imaginative design, making each piece a cherished collectible that captures the essence of both the sport and the spirit of the animal represented.

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