Name/Title
5.4.25e Stop-Motion Puppet – Nobleman in Regal Blue with MedallionEntry/Object ID
5.4.25eDescription
rtist: Alan Platt (c.1941–2022)
Height: 26 cm
Medium: Mixed media – hand-moulded head, painted detail, costumed with fabric, synthetic hair, and metallic trims
Condition: Vintage – fragile; signs of age and use consistent with screen role in stop-frame animation
Overview
An expressive stop-motion puppet depicting a richly dressed nobleman or civic dignitary. Featuring a curled wig, elaborate bicorn hat with decorative plume, and resplendent gold chain and medallion, the character suggests satire or parody of authority figures. His exaggerated facial expression and body posture reflect Alan Platt’s distinct blend of humour and theatricality in puppet design.
Production Context
While the exact production is unconfirmed, this puppet is believed to have featured in a BBC literary or historical animation. The costume detailing and character design imply a comedic or critical portrayal of 18th–19th century aristocracy, in keeping with Platt’s style of adapting literary and period tropes for television.
Provenance
Alan Platt was a NZ animator who worked for decades on stop-motion productions for the BBC and Channel 4. His work won three BAFTAs and a Peabody Award.
This puppet was part of a large group of original pieces donated by Platt to a local charity. Many were in poor condition or lacked identifying information. As a former colleague of Platt, I hand-selected the most distinctive and evocative examples to preserve as collector items—museum-level works of craft and cultural legacy.
Condition Note
This puppet shows wear consistent with screen use. Some cracking to painted surfaces and age-related patina. Fragile and best suited for display or careful conservation.
More to Come
Other original Alan Platt puppets from this archive are being listed. Follow our page or message for updates.
Details
Condition:
Used
