A Wonderful Art Deco Bonzo Creamer and Sugar Bowl

A very rare and highly desirable 1930s “Bonzo the Dog” porcelain set comprising the creamer and lidded sugar bowl designed by George E. Studdy, creator of the legendary Bonzo character. This exceptional pair features the scarce oil-on-water iridescent glaze—far less common than the standard painted finish—further elevated by brilliant gilt handles and fine factory detailing throughout. The sugar bowl is topped with Bonzo’s head as a removable lid, his expression mischievous, mouth closed with a tiny tongue peeking out. The creamer shows Bonzo mid-expression, his open mouth forming the pouring spout. Paintwork, glaze and gilt are completely original with no retouching. Remarkably, all rims on both pieces—lid, bowl, spout and top opening—are undamaged, with no chips, cracks or abrasions. Surfaces remain beautifully glossy, showing only the gentle character of age. Studdy’s beloved Bonzo first appeared around 1912 in Comic Cuts, rising to fame through The Sketch from 1918 onward. Officially named in 1922, Bonzo became a global sensation, inspiring books, illustrations, merchandise and—most notably—26 short films released between 1924 and 1925. This surge in international popularity led to the production of charming porcelain novelties in Japan by the early 1930s, of which this set is a superb and extremely rare surviving example. Both pieces are clearly marked “Made in Japan” to the base and are in outstanding condition, with no damage, repairs or losses and retaining their rare iridescent glaze. Dimensions approx.: • Sugar bowl: 11.5cm high × 9cm wide × 11cm deep; mass 304.8gm • Creamer: 10cm high × 6.5cm wide × 13cm deep; mass 177.5gm Total: Pair