A remarkable selection of over 500 original artworks by the late Peter Firmin, the creative genius behind beloved children’s classics such as Bagpuss and Basil Brush, is poised to go under the hammer. This extensive collection was recently unearthed during the clearing of Firmin’s Kent home, following his passing in 2018 at the age of 89. The auction, scheduled for 31 July and 1 August at The Canterbury Auction Galleries, promises to be a nostalgic journey for fans of Firmin’s enchanting creations.
Discovering a Hidden Legacy
The Firmin family, who have resided in Blean since 1959, stumbled upon a treasure trove of their father’s work while preparing the farmhouse for sale. Katy Firmin, one of Peter’s six daughters, expressed the bittersweet emotions surrounding the discovery. “It’s an emotional wrench,” she noted, highlighting the family’s long-standing connection to their father’s artistic legacy. “He never threw anything away. The six of us have kept things that we particularly love, but it’s time to share the rest. People have such fond memories of characters like Bagpuss and now they have the chance to own a little bit of their childhood.”
The treasure trove includes not only original watercolours and pen drawings but also storyboards, rare collectible toys, and personal art pieces, such as linocuts and engravings. This auction marks a significant moment, as it represents the largest collection of Firmin’s work ever made available to the public.
A Journey Through Childhood Classics
The Canterbury Auction Galleries have described the upcoming sale as a “treasure trove” and a unique opportunity for collectors and fans alike. Among the highlights are hand-painted illustrations featuring visible corrections and alterations, collectible models of characters from classic shows including The Clangers and Bagpuss, and original illustrations from unpublished storyboards. This collection not only showcases Firmin’s artistic talent but also the evolution of his characters over the years.
Susanna Woodgate, a specialist valuer at The Canterbury Auction Galleries, remarked, “The Canterbury Auction Galleries is proud to be auctioning the studio collection of Peter Firmin. His work brought such pleasure to so many children and their parents over the years. It is a privilege to now be able to offer people a chance to own original pieces of his work. Cataloguing the items has been a real nostalgia trip.”
A Lasting Impact: Firmin’s Contributions to Children’s Television
Peter Firmin’s notable collaborations with writer and narrator Oliver Postgate led to the creation of Smallfilms, a production company that brought to life some of the most cherished children’s television programmes in Britain. Their first success, Ivor The Engine, debuted in 1959 and quickly captured the imaginations of young viewers. The auction will also feature the first hand-drawn comic strip of Ivor, a testament to Firmin’s early work and creativity.
The Firmin family has also made a heartfelt gesture by donating the original Bagpuss puppet and the family of The Clangers to the Beaney museum in Canterbury, where they have been on loan. This act not only preserves their father’s legacy but also ensures that future generations can continue to experience the magic of Firmin’s creations.
Why it Matters
The auction of Peter Firmin’s artworks is more than just a sale; it is a poignant reminder of the power of children’s television and its ability to shape cultural memories. For many, characters like Bagpuss and Basil Brush are not merely figments of imagination, but beloved companions from childhood. As these artworks find new homes, they will undoubtedly spark joy and nostalgia for those who grew up with Firmin’s enchanting stories. The event serves as a celebration of creativity, reminding us of the importance of preserving the artistic legacies that enrich our lives and shape our childhoods.
