A stunning collection of over 500 original artworks by the late Peter Firmin, the visionary behind beloved children’s television characters such as Bagpuss and Basil Brush, is slated for auction. This remarkable discovery, which includes rare illustrations and memorabilia, has been unearthed from Firmin’s family home in Kent. As his family prepares to share these treasures with the public, fans of Firmin’s enduring creations are given a unique opportunity to own a piece of their childhood.
A Hidden Legacy
Peter Firmin, who passed away in 2018 at the age of 89, co-created several iconic children’s television programmes in partnership with Oliver Postgate, who died a decade earlier. Together, they founded Smallfilms, which produced classics like The Saga Of Noggin The Nog and The Clangers. The recent revelation of Firmin’s extensive collection came during the clearance of his farmhouse and surrounding outbuildings, where his family stumbled upon a veritable treasure trove of artistic gems.
Katy Firmin, one of Peter’s six daughters, expressed the mix of nostalgia and sadness that accompanies the auction. “My family have lived here in Blean since 1959, and when we opened various cupboards, we found things we simply didn’t know existed,” she shared. “It’s an emotional wrench. He never threw anything away, and it’s time to share the rest.”
What’s on Offer
The auction, hosted by The Canterbury Auction Galleries, is set to take place on 31 July and 1 August. It promises to be the largest sale of Firmin’s work ever held, showcasing original watercolours, pen drawings, storyboards, rare collectible toys, and personal artworks such as linocuts and engravings. Each piece reflects Firmin’s creative genius, with many items revealing his artistic process through visible changes and corrections.
Highlights include hand-painted illustrations from his television shows, along with unpublished book attempts that provide insight into his creative journey. The auctioneers have aptly described the collection as a “treasure trove,” underscoring the significance of these artworks not only as collectibles but as cherished memories for generations of viewers.
Susanna Woodgate, a specialist valuer at The Canterbury Auction Galleries, remarked on the honour of handling such a unique collection. “His work brought such pleasure to so many children and their parents over the years,” she noted. “It is a privilege to offer people a chance to own original pieces of his work.”
A Lasting Impact
In addition to the auction, the Firmin family is donating the original Bagpuss and the family of The Clangers to the Beaney museum in Canterbury, where these beloved characters have been on loan. This gesture not only preserves the legacy of Firmin’s creations but also ensures that future generations can appreciate the magic of his work.
Firmin’s influence on British children’s television is undeniable. His characters have become cultural icons, loved for their charm and creativity. The auction serves as a poignant reminder of the joy and wonder these programmes brought to countless viewers, instilling a sense of nostalgia that continues to resonate today.
Why it Matters
The upcoming auction of Peter Firmin’s artwork is not merely an opportunity to acquire collectibles; it represents a celebration of a creative legacy that has shaped the fabric of British children’s entertainment. As fans look to reconnect with the characters that influenced their childhoods, this event also underscores the importance of preserving and sharing cultural heritage. In a world increasingly dominated by digital media, the tangible nature of Firmin’s work invites us to reflect on the joy of storytelling and the artistry that brings imaginative worlds to life.
