Saturday 9th of September, back again at one of my favourite shows. The first show for me in ten months, following a nasty fall in November which put me out of action for a while. All the usual soldier dealers were there, Adrian Little , Andy Morant, Steve Vickers, Tom Pratchett, John Begg, Joanne Christian, Peter Dale, etc.
For me, Sandown Park has become more of a selling day than a buying day. Lots of soldiers and other figures can be found on many dealers tables, regardless of their main interests and stock. Andy Morant found a tray of Britain Gnomes in various sizes and poses, and 30 or so very well priced coco cubs
My finds this time were limited but interesting, firstly 4 matching American infantry at the slope probably made by Hanks, c1910, which I understand had been purchased in America. I have not seen this figure before and presumably they were mainly exported, explaining their scarcity in England. Secondly 4 wooden 175mm scale figures which I think must be c1890, in red uniform with elaborate gold frogging and magnificent moustaches, sporting a spiked helmet with the letters WPC where I would expect the helmet plate to be. Are these West Point Cadets? I am not sure which subject I know less about, 19th century wooden soldier manufacturers or the uniform of the West Point Cadets but they are lovely figures. I look forward to being educated by fellow subscribers on both subjects.
Three more shows for me this year, Paris Eurofigurines 29.10.2023, Sandown 11.11.2023 and the London show on 8.12.2023. I am very pleased to see the Chicago Show is going ahead at a new venue and I wish the new organisers all the best in keeping this celebration of the toy soldier alive for many more years to come.
On a more sober note it was sad to hear of the passing of Lily Morant aged 90. Countless visitors to Portabello Road will remember when she started a stall with son Andy and for many years dealt in antique toys and period costume. A lovely service of remembrance and celebration was held at Kensall Crematorium on 30th August, followed by a wake at the nearby Masons Arms where many stories were swapped of her remarkable life.
Harry Kemp 10.9.2023
