Alnwick's hippo collector bids farewell to his prized bronze table
A striking piece of hippo history belonging to an Alnwick man is being auctioned.
The 'Hippo Childhood' coffee table by Scottish artist and sculptor Mark Stoddart is being sold by Anderson & Garland.
The patinated bronze and glass piece, complete with certificate of authenticity, carries an estimate of £3,500 to £4,500.
The table comes from the collection of Alnwick resident Philip Angier, whose passion for hippos began over 50 years ago and grew into a herd of more than a 1,000 figurines, artefacts and soft toys amassed alongside his wife Elizabeth.
Having already given the collection a joyful farewell celebration at Alnwick Castle – raising £4,500 for Northumberland Wildlife Trust - Philip is now sending the standout piece of that collection to auction, with proceeds once again supporting the wildlife charity he and Elizabeth have championed for over 30 years.
Auctioneer Harry Pickup said: "It isn't every day you get to sell a bronze and glass hippo coffee table, and it's rarer still to sell one with such a lovely story behind it.
“Philip's passion for these wonderful animals shines through in every piece of his collection, and we're delighted to be able to help him give this one a great send off while raising money for such a worthwhile cause."
Northumberland Wildlife Trust chief executive Mike Pratt says: “Philip and Elizabeth who have donated the table really are an inspiration to others with their love of wildlife and passion for fundraising. They have been supporters of the Trust for over 30 years, so I am delighted that money raised at the auction will be a fitting legacy to their fundraising efforts.”
The auction takes place at Anderson House, with viewing available on Friday 25th September from 12pm to 3pm, Saturday 26th September from 10am to 12.30pm, and Monday 28th September from 10am to 3pm.