Bidding for this lot will end on Sunday, December 7th. The auction will begin at 3:00PM GMT (7:00AM PST) and lots are sold sequentially via live auctioneer; tune in to the live streaming broadcast on auction day to follow the pace. Note other lots in the auction may close on Friday, December 5th or Saturday, December 6th.

An original hand-painted cel of Edward Nigma (aka The Riddler) used in the production of the episode "Riddler's Reform" from Batman: The Animated Series.

The Riddler only appeared in five episodes of the original 85 episodes of the animated series and only three of them featured the villain heavily (the other two being cameos). The "Riddler's Reform" episode remains one of the most memorable and sees The Riddler being released from Arkham and seemingly turning over a new leaf by making a line of innocent toys and games. He is happy but resents the fact that he never truly defeated Batman.

As cels featuring The Riddler are comparatively rare, this example, portraying him in such a poised, definitive stance, dressed in his trademark green suit and bowler hat perfectly captures his calculating intelligence and self-assured menace. It's a perfect example of the character's animation design, and a must-have for any fan of the genre.

Presented framed with the Warner Bros Animation Art seal and accompanying certificate of authenticity, this original cel is a true collector's piece for the generation that grew up with the "Dark Deco" series. Dimensions (framed): 38 cm x 43 cm x 3 cm (15" x 17" x 1.25")

Sold without copyright; see copyright notice in the Terms and Conditions.

Estimate: £500 - 1,000 Ω

View all lots from BATMAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES (1992-1995)

View all lots from BATMAN - ALL ITEMS