A Tolkien Original

Ahh! I envy you, that you've seen it. As for the chances of having it for one's very own; I agree - the lottery is the only answer.

But I bet I can make a guess as to which institution or body will end up with it...

Now now Holford, you have plenty of nice Tolkien items already I'm sure. Plus, I'm positive this isn't all you've had a close look at in recent months of a Tolkien nature.

If signed Tolkien books can go for £50K+ (although exceptional), then I think a piece like this for £30K-£50K is pretty good. Interesting to see what price it goes for.

Any reason their selling Deagol?
(Garm) Where is it going to end up do you think? (Bodleian?)

BH

This sketch took our breath away when we found it being used as a bookmark in a photograph album. It would be nice to think that whoever buys it would put it on show for all to see. His level of skill at just 19 was astounding. I know I speak for N too when I say that we were honoured to be in the right place at the right time.

Those careless Tolkiens!

That said, I think everybody is genuinely looking forward to what you two reveal in late March. No pressure...

BH

Well i think a certain Swiss collector might be interested too and no doubt there will be some interest in the States too.

Seeing it for the first time is one of those memories that will stay with me forever. I had sat looking at the drawing for 2 or 3 minutes making the mental connection between the shape of the house and the name of Lamb, both of which were familiar and the cogs were slowly whirring. before my eyes drifted to the bottom left corner, when I made out the letters in the mongram one by one T R R J

I think I said "It's a Tolkien picture" which was a bit daft considering the company at the time! But when i said "It's a Ronald picture" the look on peoples faces was wonderful! We spent the next half an hour trying to convince ourselves that it might not be an original, just a print, but looking at it under magnification showed it was original. The detail in the drawing is fascinating, and it makes a nice pair with the picture JRRT did later of the other side of the house.

Very honoured to have had the chance to see it up close, one of many gems I've been lucky enough to have seen (and touched!) over the last year or so.

On looking up the auction results, I was surprised to see that the picture didn't sell. Does anyone know why?