Sunday, 29 December 2024

A closer look at John Ruddle’s figures- Officers

 This post l want to take a closer look at JR’s figures-

Here they are close up. I like the deceptively simple looking painting.
The figure on the left has had a repair done to his right shoulder using solder, which is visible.
A wire walking stick has been added to the figure on the left. Wonder if he is high ranking or not?

I believe JR named his figures and kept notes on their service careers ( I wonder if such records have been preserved by someone, I do hope so.) even allowing some to retire. My officer figures have names painted on their bases but the non officer figures do not ( see future post)Note some figures have been renamed, perhaps after being a casualty?

Finally I am intrigued by the arm band and collar on the above officer. Thoughts?
One last thing, I am wondering if I should varnish the figures to preserve John Ruddle’s painting? Can’t make up my mind if that is the way to go…

5 comments:

  1. Some enamel varnishes, especially mat ones can discolor over time, for example giving a yellowish shade to whites. It actually, sometimes looks more realistic. Gloss enamel varnish is less prone to discoloring. Various artist fixatives and others are said to be non- discoloring.
    John Ruddle already greatly modified commercial figures so any additions you make are just further touches.
    John's figures are very characterful but now they are yours. I would fall somewhere in the middle, making occasonal alterations but preserving the original look to keep the tribute to a great collector.
    James of Quantrill's Toy Soldiers

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  2. Love the simple job on the trews, they look great, works really well. If it was me I think I would go with a gloss varnish on them.

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  3. I would be tempted to add a couple of coats of yacht varnish.

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  4. Charming figures with their own personal histories (it would be lovely to find the records)
    I'd also be tempted to varnish

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