‘Red Flag Law’ Figurine

By Dave Bausch

Automobilia art objects take several forms, some are made just for pleasure to the eye, but others were made to tell a story or help record a historic event. This art item was made to tell a story about “Red Flag Law.”

In 1865, a law was passed in England that limited speed to not more then four miles per hour in the country and two miles per hour in the city. It also required a walking attendant to carry a red warning flag or lantern preceding the vehicle. This law remained on the books until 1896.

This porcelain is in the shape of a chauffeur with a lantern and horn. The quality of this figurine is very much like Royal Doulton, but, on this example there are no markings. The figure is 10-and-three-quarter-inches high and an automobile object of this quality would be priced in the range of $3,000 to $5,000.