Western Morning News (Saturday)
Fascinating selection of lots including Pelham puppets
FROM the Court of Protection a fascinating collection of over 150 Pelham puppets. Started in 1947 by Bob Pelham, an ex-WWII officer who “wanted to create something that’s as near to being alive as makes no difference”, it continued until 1980 and at one stage made over 400,000 unique puppets a year. While the most expensive make over £5000, Piers Motley has a number that shall make in the mid £200-500, including a Tiger.
There are various other toys in the sale including a BassettLowke O Gauge BL99010 Princess Class Pacific locomotive Lady Patricia expected to make £240-280.
From a retired chef who once cooked banquets at Cambridge University is a fascinating collection of kitchenalia including jelly moulds from St. John’s College. Estimates vary from £30-200. From a collection in the sale from the once owner of South Devon Light Railway is a British Railways Cornwall poster by Jack Merriott which is expected to make £500-700.
From the same deceased estate is a James Phillips & Sons Ltd. Union St. Bristol enamel advertising sign promoting their Removals & Storage and House Furnishers, 229x86.5cm. Already with considerable interest this could easily make £2000.
A single owner collection of clocks has been consigned to the saleroom from a collector in Exeter. Included in a large selection of timepieces is a unique lot 548, a twin Gent of Leicester master clocks and control panel from Scotland Yard expected to make £18002600.
A small collection of art has come in from a deceased estate in Budleigh Salterton. This includes a limited edition lithograph by William Scott entitled ‘Summer Suite _ Green Predominating’. With bids nearing £2000 two weeks before the sale this could well make £3000.
The sale takes place on January 18-20.
For more information call on 01395 267403 or visit www. piersmotleyauctions.co.uk.