We first launched our loveable range of animal-shaped Collectables in the 1930s and they’ve been a firm favourite ever since. Taken from our archives, this new collection of special Collectables features Marmaduke the rabbit, Twin Bunnies and a French bulldog named Byngo. The best of friends, they are a fun and friendly trio to be enjoyed by all!

Byngo was produced by Denby Pottery in the 1930's. He resembled a French Bulldog with a dark coloured left ear and big black eyes. Byngo and Denby’s animals from the 1930’s often included a backstamp which resembled a signature reading: ‘Danesby ware’ which was the generic name given to Denby’s ‘giftware’.

During the first production, there were five sizes produced from 1½” to 9” tall. These were produced in the 1930’s in green, brown, a light beige or ‘putty’ colour and occasionally produced in blue. As with Marmaduke Bunny, reproductions of Byngo have been produced since 2003 after the restoration of original moulds. Productions are marked with a contemporary backstamp and usually bear the year they were made.

At the height of Denby’s production of art wares in the 1930s an interesting assortment of stoneware animals and novelties were made. The most popular by far was a rabbit called Marmaduke which first made an appearance c. 1928-29. It was based on a cartoon rabbit of the time and produced by Denby in a number of sizes. 

After restoring the original moulds used to make our historic characters, we were able to create new moulds which our craftspeople have used to handcraft this unique range. Made in the same way as when they were first introduced, each character has been cast by hand in our Derbyshire factory. The Collectables are statement pieces that are both beautiful and durable. Inspired by cartoon characters of the past, they are perfect for decorating your home, or to give as a memorable gift that can be treasured for years to come.