War Horse: Original 'Joey' Prototype Head with Michael Morpurgo Handwritten Opening Page, circa 2007, Comprising: An original prototype of the 'Joey' head, constructed from sculpted plywood and wooden rods secured with twine, with a central plywood and metal support at the back of the head intended for attachment to other components, and decorative thin wooden detailing around the eyes, with a certificate of authenticity; accompanied by the handwritten first page of War Horse, written and signed by Michael Morpurgo across three pages of wove-like paper in blue fountain pen, signed and dated on the final page '1982.then/ 2026'; together with an original concept sketch for the design of War Horse by Rae Smith, charcoal on paper, titled 'Action Drawing 'Joey's Night' (War Horse), and signed and dated 'Rae Smith 2016 RAH', unframed, rolled, head: 23 1/2in x 13 7/8in x 10in (60cm x 35cm x 25cm) (3) Footnotes: This compelling group brings together key early material from the development and authorship of War Horse, uniting an original production prototype head of Joey, a manuscript page by Michael Morpurgo, and an early conceptual drawing by Rae Smith, who designed the stage adaptation of War Horse. Together, they offer a rare insight into the collaborative genesis of one of the most celebrated stage works of the 21st century, where text, design, and puppetry were developed in close dialogue. At its centre is an original prototype head of 'Joey', the principal equine protagonist of War Horse, constructed in wood and mixed materials. The piece represents the basis for the development of the full-scale puppet. The lightly articulated eye detailing and exposed construction underline its artistry, and the design process undertaken by Handspring Puppet Company in collaboration with the National Theatre. Joey, the central figure of War Horse, follows a narrative arc from rural farm life through separation, sale, and eventual conscription into the First World War. His journey through the chaos of conflict, marked by resilience and an unwavering capacity for trust, has rendered him one of contemporary theatre's most recognisable and emotionally resonant characters. The cultural impact of the production was further underscored when Joey was ceremonially honoured, leading the Household Cavalry at the Windsor Tattoo in the presence of HM Queen Elizabeth II. Accompanying this is a handwritten first page of War Horse by Michael Morpurgo, written across three sheets in blue fountain pen and signed, with the final page dated '1982.then/ 2026'. The manuscript page is of particular interest for its direct link to the authorial origin of the narrative, offering a tangible connection to the literary foundation upon which the stage production was later built. Morpurgo's text, which has become synonymous with themes of loyalty and endurance, is here presented in an intimate form. Completing the group is an original charcoal concept sketch by Rae Smith for War Horse, capturing the visual language of the production. Smith's drawings were instrumental in shaping the staging. Provenance: The prototype head of Joey was created for the original production at the Royal National Theatre, a landmark collaboration with Handspring Puppet Company. It was later gifted to Craig Leo, the original lead puppeteer of Joey, by Basil Jones and Adrian Kohler of Handspring Puppet Company. Also included is a handwritten first page by Michael Morpurgo, gifted directly from the author. This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: AR AR Goods subject to Artists Resale Right Additional Premium. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing