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A dynamic original production cel featuring Colonel Jorgen and Thompson, set against an authentic gouache and watercolour production background depicting the moonbase interior.
Belvision's animation style, under the direction of Raymond LeBlanc, masterfully translated Herge's ligne claire artwork into motion. The clean outlines, vivid palette, and graphic compositions echo mid-century European design principles, bringing a distinctive visual rhythm to every scene. This sequence in particular showcases how the studio injected cinematic flair into television animation, with strong silhouettes, dramatic perspective, and colour-coded emotion.
The composition captures a moment of confrontation, Thompson cautiously advances as the treacherous Jorgen grips a wrench, ready to strike. The sense of movement and tension is palpable, with both figures caught mid-action, their stylised forms contrasting sharply against the graphic, angular setting.
The powerful pairing of production cel and non-key production background evokes the noir-inflected atmosphere of this pivotal sequence. Around 1:01:41 into the Explorers on the Moon two-part story, Jorgen's menace and physicality are on full display, a rare moment of real danger in the Tintin universe, conveyed through bold colour blocking and the tension of minimalist design.
Produced at a time when European studios were beginning to rival American animation houses, Belvision's Tintin adaptations stand as milestones of international television art. Pieces like this, with their combination of movement, suspense, and refined design, exemplify how the studio captured both the adventurous spirit and quiet sophistication of Herge's world.
A visually arresting and rare production cel that bridges comic art and cinematic storytelling, embodying the charm, danger, and elegance that made The Adventures of Tintin a timeless cultural landmark. Dimensions: 25 cm x 30.5 cm (9.75" x 12")
Sold without copyright; see copyright notice in the Terms and Conditions.
Estimate: £750 - 1,500 M
View all lots from LES ADVENTURES DE TINTIN (TV SERIES, 1959-1964)