In an extraordinary revelation, over 500 pieces of artwork by the late Peter Firmin, the mastermind behind beloved children’s television classics such as Bagpuss and The Clangers, will soon be auctioned off, allowing fans to reconnect with their cherished childhood memories. Discovered during a clearing of his family farmhouse in Kent, this remarkable collection includes original illustrations, storyboards, and rare collectibles, all set to go under the hammer on 31 July and 1 August at The Canterbury Auction Galleries.
A Hidden Treasure Unearthed
The Firmin family, who have resided in Blean since 1959, stumbled upon a veritable treasure trove while preparing their home for sale. Katy Firmin, the fourth of Peter’s six daughters, expressed the bittersweet emotions surrounding the auction. “Opening various cupboards revealed items we never knew existed,” she recounted, highlighting the emotional significance of the discovery. “It’s an emotional wrench. But there are just so many things—he never threw anything away.”
Indeed, the collection is a testament to Firmin’s prolific creativity, featuring not only watercolours and pen drawings of his iconic characters but also personal art pieces, including linocuts and engravings. The items, described by the auction house as the largest collection of Firmin’s work ever to be offered for sale, promise to entice collectors and fans alike.
Highlights of the Auction
Among the gems slated for auction are Firmin’s hand-painted illustrations, which showcase his artistic process with visible corrections and changes. The sale will also feature collectible models of characters from his shows, alongside original storyboards and unpublished book attempts that were discovered among the family’s possessions.
Susanna Woodgate, a valuer at The Canterbury Auction Galleries, expressed her enthusiasm for the auction, stating, “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.” The nostalgia associated with Firmin’s creations is palpable, as each piece carries the weight of fond memories for generations.
A Legacy Preserved
In a gesture that underscores the enduring impact of Firmin’s creations, the family plans to donate the original Bagpuss and the family of The Clangers to the Beaney Museum in Canterbury, where they have been on loan. This move ensures that future generations will continue to appreciate the artistry and storytelling that defined Firmin’s career.
Peter Firmin, who was awarded a BAFTA lifetime achievement award in 2014, co-founded Smallfilms with Oliver Postgate, who passed away in 2008. While Firmin was responsible for bringing the puppets, sets, and backdrops to life, Postgate was the voice behind the narratives that captivated audiences. Their collaboration began with Ivor The Engine in 1959, a heartwarming tale of a singing steam locomotive, which remains a beloved classic.
As the auction approaches, anticipation builds for the opportunity to acquire a piece of television history. The Firmin family’s decision to part with these treasured artworks is not only a farewell to their father’s legacy but also an invitation for fans to own a fragment of the magic that shaped their childhoods.
Why it Matters
The forthcoming auction of Peter Firmin’s artwork is more than just a sale; it represents a poignant intersection of nostalgia, creativity, and cultural heritage. For many, the characters Firmin brought to life are not merely creations; they are symbols of their formative years, imbued with lessons of friendship, imagination, and adventure. As these cherished pieces find new homes, they will continue to inspire joy and recollection, keeping the spirit of Firmin’s artistry alive for future generations. In a world increasingly distracted by the ephemeral, the chance to connect with such timeless creativity is a rare and invaluable opportunity.
