The bearded man with remains of real hair and staple suspension loop. Fitted on a later oak and felt covered base. Attributed to Clowes and Sons ‘Excelsior Marionette’ late 19th/Early 20th Century.

Approximately 15cm High.

Ref: 25731

Note: In the 1860s travelling marionette shows were a common sight either on their own or at fairgrounds. This peripatetic nature makes them one of the most ephemeral of Victorian entertainments, since they left no buildings, very few printed bills, posters, or scripts, and only a handful of actual puppets survive. Travelling shows were performed by family troupes, and amongst the most famous was the Tiller-Clowes troupe who were also well-known puppet makers.