Royal Doulton Character Jug, Ard of Earing D6588 (dark purple tricorn; green, white and yellow clothing). Designed by David B. Biggs. Issued 1964 - 1967. Size: 7.5"H (Large)With hand held to cup his ear, this cockney gentleman is a comic representation of a deaf man. After being discontinued in 1967, this jug has increased in value and is difficult to find.This partially deaf fellow cups his hand to his ear as he strains to catch the conversation. Eh? What? Come again! The expression ard of earing - obviously said with a heavy cockney accent - caught on in the 1920s. The phrase was apparently used by A.T. Cook, General Secretary of the National Union of Mine Workers, as an excuse for ignoring the overture of the British government.With hand held to cup his ear, this cockney gentleman is a comic representation of a Manufacturer: Royal Doulton Country of Origin: England