Exceptional Circus Poster Collection...
22nd July 2025
A remarkable collection of circus memorabilia, assembled over a lifetime by Bridport collector Ken Rattenbury, captivated bidders at Lawrences Auctioneers’ June Fine Art Sale in Crewkerne.
Well known within the circus community, Rattenbury dedicated decades to building an extraordinary archive of vintage posters, programmes, and ephemera, spanning from the Victorian era through to the late 20th century. His collection offered a rare insight into the vibrant visual and cultural history of the circus, much of it rooted in the West Country.
“This was far more than a collection,” said Auctioneer Simon Jones. “It was a personal archive built with knowledge and passion. The quality, variety and condition of the material spoke volumes about Ken’s dedication to preserving this unique aspect of popular entertainment history.”
A standout moment from the sale came with the auction of a group of rare circus posters, including a striking large-format Circus Agogo poster (101cm x 76cm), along with vibrant examples from Rosaire’s Circus, W. Pinder & Sons, and others. The lot sparked competitive bidding and achieved an impressive £4,000 (inclusive of premium).
Many of the posters held strong local interest, advertising performances in Bridport, Lyme Regis, and Weymouth. Their inclusion not only underscored the historical depth of the collection but also celebrated Rattenbury’s role as a meticulous chronicler of Dorset’s entertainment heritage.
The sale attracted widespread attention from collectors and enthusiasts across the UK, and the success of the Rattenbury collection was a highlight of Lawrences June Fine Art auction.
If you’re considering parting with a collection, or even a single standout piece, our specialists would be delighted to hear from you ahead of our next Fine Art Sale.
