A UNIQUE collection of porcelain 'trial' figures comes under the hammer in West Devon this month, in a sale which will raise money for Devon Air Ambulance and the Brook Animal Hospital.
Auctioneer Robin Fenner, who will sell the figures at an antiques and collectables auction in Tavistock on September 30, said these type of pieces are very rarely seen beyond the ceramic studio.
Mr Fenner said: 'The figures are the ones that are invariably destroyed, being the forerunners of the original that collectors swoop to purchase.
'Trial figures are simply the prototypes, those modelled, then cast and glazed in the white, then test decorated in a variety of colours, pattern designs and finishes, until one is chosen for final production and retail release.'
These figures, pictured below, are the work of West Devon artist Carolyn Froud.
Her recent move from the area necessitated the clearance of her studio and Mr Fenner said with so many figures to dispose of, it was decided that the prototype pieces should be offered at auction and the proceeds donated to charity.
Mr Fenner said Compton and Woodhouse were the largest commissioners of porcelain figures in Britain, working closely with the artisans of Worcester, Coalport and Doulton.
He said the collection was more likely to find homes with scholars and students of Royal Worcester, Doulton and Coalport, rather than those who collect the finished works.
Mr Fenner said: 'These are indeed unique pieces and examples of the process of production which we, the public, rarely have the opportunity to see, let alone purchase.'
The sale will take place at the Stannary Gallery at 11am.
Other items on sale include furniture, military figures, silver, glass, oil paintings and water colours.