What’s in the Box? Handmade Beatrix Potter figures

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Here’s the latest story from our What’s in the Box display.

Beatrix Potter (1866-1943) started writing and illustrating with her first book ‘The Tale of Peter Rabbit’ published in 1901.

Her scientific interests as a naturalist and knowledge of animal behaviour are at the heart of her animal characters. Although they often wear human clothing, live in houses and follow human occupations, they remain true to the characteristics of their species, as Beatrix Potter perceived it.

Beatrix Potter figures on display at Hove Museum

The figures on display were handmade and donated to the Museum by a Brighton resident, Mrs Fraser, who based them on the designs in the ballet film ‘The Tales of Beatrix Potter’ (1971). The film was choreographed by Sir Frederick Ashton (who danced Mrs Tiggywinkle) and included many dancers from the Royal Ballet. There are no words, only movement and music, but the film was a huge success with audiences internationally. Mrs Fraser’s figures are beautifully made with great attention to detail.

The books on display are:

The Tale of Mrs Tittlemouse (1910) – modern copy

The Tale of Pigling Bland (1913) – pre 1917 edition