Artwork by Peter Firmin, the creator of the beloved children's television character Bagpuss, has sold for over £400,000 at auction. The sale, which attracted international bidders, included more than 500 paintings, books, and collectibles gathered at Firmin's home in Kent.
Firmin, an artist and puppet maker, co-created a range of popular characters alongside fellow creator Oliver Postgate, including Bagpuss, The Clangers, Noggin the Nog, Ivor the Engine, and Basil Brush. All 534 lots offered at the two-day auction held by Canterbury Auction Galleries found buyers.
Among the most valuable items were paintings depicting The Clangers and Noggin the Nog. A signed artwork featuring the character Basil Brush, showing the fox interacting with a mole, achieved £6,000. Other notable sales included an animated Gabriel the Toad character and an illustration of Nogbad firing a cannon at the Ice Dragon, both selling for £4,200.
The collection offered a glimpse into the creative legacy of Firmin, whose work has been cherished by generations. The auction's success underscores the enduring popularity of the characters he helped bring to life.