TOY

A copper alloy toy, possibly a puppet, of post-medieval date. The head appears to be in the form of a bust of Mr. Punch (from the Punch and Judy puppet show) or possibly of a Jester. The object has an oval face with a prominent nose, recessed eyes, and an open mouth. The figure wears a tall pointed hat which points forwards and has a wide rim. At the rear of the head some excess fabric of the hat points down with the two points forming the style of a bifurcated jester's hat (a fool's hat).

Below the neck of the object is an undulating ruff from which extend three projections. Two of the projections taper in width to a rounded terminal, possibly representing a bell. The third projection appears to be more of a folded triangle representing cloth. Each triangle of 'cloth' is deliberately bent at different angles giving the impression of movement.

Below the collar is an integral stem or spike which measures 41mm in length. Hammer marks are visible on the spike which tapers to a rounded point.

The function of this object is uncertain however it is possible that it was used as a puppet with cloth concealing the spike or that it was given as a fairground prize.

Dimensions: 85mm in length, 21mm in width, 18mm thick, 35.9g

A Mrs Punch toy which has been recorded from Lincolnshire can be found at NLM-B59493. A strap fitting in the form of a jester's head which has been recorded from Denbighshire can be found at LVPL-861A37.

The Punch and Judy puppet show originated in Italy and was brought over to England in the 17th Century, and is mentioned in Samuel Pepys diary of 1662. The characters were changed and adapted overtime, becoming popular children's entertainment from the Victorian period onwards.