Bruce Bairnsfather 'Old Bill' moulded fibre figurine in original box

According to the National Army Museum 'Charles Bruce Bairnsfather (1888-1959) served with the Royal Warwickshire Regiment on the Western Front during World War One (1914-1918). Before the war he had attempted to make his living as a commercial artist and he continued to sketch while at the Front.
The horror of trench warfare had a profound effect on the young infantry officer but it was the stoic good humour of his men that inspired most of the cartoons he produced. Encouraged by his work's popularity with officers and men alike, Bairnsfather submitted a cartoon entitled, 'Where Did That One Go To?', to the 'The Bystander' magazine and it was accepted and published. Compilations of his cartoons, notably the 'Fragments from France' series, followed. Bairnsfather's artwork was reproduced widely in various forms and became the subject of successful theatrical and film productions.
Invalided home, Bairnsfather became quite a celebrity but the British authorities seemed disinclined to promote the artist or his work. Bairnsfather was however in demand from Britain's allies and he went on to work with the French, Italian and United States armies.'

'Old Bill' is Bairnsfather's most famous character. He is a grumbling, older, pipe smoking British Tommy (soldier) with a large moustache. With his pals Bert and Alf, 'Old Bill' was an anti-hero when compared to the brave, patriotic figures shown in home front propaganda. He represented the “everyman” soldier: his fears, stresses, and nostalgia for home—but also his determination to carry on.

The first six of 'The Bystander' magazine compilations are featured in the collection, along with postcards and china souvenirs.