42197 TOURNESOL PATINS À MOTEUR – FIGURINE RESINE 12CM – CALCULUS ON ROLLER SKATES – 12CM RESIN FIGURE

Artist: Hergé
Price: £32 including UK postage
Publisher: Moulinsart
Format: Resin in original cello tube packaging
Condition: Brand new.
Size: 18.5cm including packaging

CALCULUS IN THE RED SEA SHARKS: A SHORT DESCRIPTION

In The Red Sea Sharks, Professor Cuthbert Calculus plays a relatively minor but amusing and pivotal role. As always, his eccentricity and brilliant inventions add a layer of humour and utility to the story. Here’s a detailed look at his involvement:

Calculus’ Role in the Plot

1. Arrival at Marlinspike Hall: At the start of the adventure, Calculus is seen at Marlinspike Hall, where his quirky behaviour provides comic relief. He remains blissfully oblivious to the tense discussions about Emir Ben Kalish Ezab’s predicament. His focus on scientific experiments creates a sharp contrast with the urgency of Tintin and Haddock’s mission.
2. The Shark Submarine:
   • Key Contribution: Calculus lends the Shark Submarine (introduced in Red Rackham’s Treasure) to Tintin and Haddock for their mission. This small, shark-shaped, two-person submersible becomes a critical tool later in the story, showcasing Calculus’ genius.
   • Hilarity: While explaining the submersible, Calculus, true to his character, mishears and misunderstands much of what is said around him, leading to several comical exchanges.
3. Indirect Influence: Although Calculus does not accompany Tintin and Haddock on their journey, his invention plays a crucial role during the climax:
   • The Shark Submarine is used to investigate a sinking ship linked to the human trafficking operation. Its compact size and stealth capabilities prove invaluable for underwater reconnaissance.

Character Traits in This Story

• Absent-mindedness: Calculus remains characteristically distracted, engrossed in his experiments, and detached from the gravity of the situation.
• Inventive Genius: His Shark Submarine continues to be one of the most iconic and useful inventions in the Tintin series.
• Comic Relief: His interactions with Haddock, including his classic misinterpretations, provide levity in an otherwise serious and intense storyline.

Significance

Although Professor Calculus is not a central figure in The Red Sea Sharks, his contribution underscores Hergé’s knack for seamlessly integrating recurring characters into the narrative. His Shark Submarine not only adds a practical dimension to the adventure but also reminds readers of Calculus’ brilliance and the rich continuity of the Tintin universe.

THE ADVENTURES OF TINTIN: A SHORT DESCRIPTION

The Adventures of Tintin is a globally renowned comic book series created by Belgian artist Georges Remi, better known as Hergé. First appearing in 1929, the series chronicles the exploits of Tintin, a young, intrepid reporter, and his loyal fox terrier, Snowy. Spanning 24 albums, The Adventures of Tintin is a masterpiece of storytelling and art, blending mystery, humour, action, and social commentary.

Main Elements of the Series

1. The Protagonist: Tintin

Tintin is a young journalist, although his reporting work often takes a back seat to his daring escapades. He is intelligent, resourceful, and morally upright, embodying the classic hero archetype. While his backstory is largely unexplored, his courage and quick thinking define his character. Tintin’s ability to adapt to diverse cultures and situations reflects his universal appeal.

2. Snowy (Milou)

Snowy is Tintin’s loyal and witty canine companion. While mostly providing comic relief, Snowy often plays a crucial role in saving Tintin from peril. His love for bones and occasional lapses into self-serving behaviour make him an endearing character.

3. Recurring Characters

Hergé created a rich supporting cast, each with distinct personalities:

• Captain Haddock: Tintin’s best friend and a sea captain known for his colourful vocabulary and love of whisky. His emotional outbursts provide comic relief, but he is also brave and dependable.
• Professor Calculus (Professeur Tournesol): A brilliant but absent-minded scientist, often at the centre of the series’ technological inventions and comic misunderstandings.
• Thomson and Thompson (Dupond et Dupont): Identical-looking detectives whose clumsiness contrasts with their self-perceived competence.
• Bianca Castafiore: The “Milanese Nightingale,” an opera singer whose dramatic flair and piercing voice often unsettle Haddock.
• Villains and Adversaries: Memorable antagonists like Rastapopoulos, Allan, and Colonel Sponsz drive many of the series’ conflicts.

Themes and Settings

1. Global Adventures

The series takes Tintin across the globe—from the bustling streets of Europe to the deserts of the Middle East, the jungles of South America, the snowy Himalayas, and even the Moon. Hergé’s meticulous research ensures each setting is rendered with authenticity.

2. Mystery and Intrigue

Most of Tintin’s adventures involve solving mysteries, unravelling conspiracies, or battling criminal networks. Stories like The Secret of the Unicorn and The Calculus Affair showcase intricate plots with twists and suspense.

3. Humour and Satire

Hergé incorporates humour through character interactions, situational comedy, and satirical depictions of contemporary politics and society. For example, The Blue Lotus critiques Western imperialism and King Ottokar’s Sceptre foreshadows the political tensions leading to World War II.

4. Science and Exploration

Hergé’s fascination with technology is evident in albums like Destination Moon and Explorers on the Moon, where he combines scientific accuracy with imaginative storytelling. These stories reflect the spirit of discovery prevalent during the 20th century.

Art Style: The Ligne Claire

Hergé’s signature “ligne claire” (clear line) style is characterised by precise lines, bold colours, and detailed backgrounds. This approach ensures that the action is easy to follow while maintaining a high level of visual storytelling. The meticulous attention to detail extends to vehicles, architecture, and clothing, enhancing the realism of Tintin’s world.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

• Universal Appeal: Tintin’s adventures have been translated into over 70 languages, making the series a cornerstone of global comic literature.
• Adaptations: The series has inspired animated TV shows, radio dramas, and the 2011 Steven Spielberg-directed film The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn.
• Influence: Hergé’s work has influenced generations of artists and writers, elevating the comic medium to a sophisticated form of art and storytelling.
• Controversy: Some early albums, like Tintin in the Congo, reflect the colonial attitudes of the time and have drawn criticism for outdated racial stereotypes. Hergé later revised his approach, as seen in culturally sensitive works like The Blue Lotus.

Notable Works In The Series

1. The Secret of the Unicorn and Red Rackham’s Treasure: A swashbuckling treasure hunt.
2. The Calculus Affair: A Cold War espionage thriller.
3. The Blue Lotus: A gripping story set in China, highlighting Hergé’s anti-imperialist stance.
4. Destination Moon and Explorers on the Moon: Ground-breaking science fiction.
5. The Black Island: A classic mystery with a British setting.

Enduring Appeal

The combination of Tintin’s heroic spirit, Hergé’s masterful art, and the series’ blend of humour, adventure, and cultural awareness make The Adventures of Tintin timeless. It continues to captivate readers of all ages, embodying the thrill of exploration and the universal struggle between good and evil.

HORNSEYS: A DESTINATION FOR TINTIN MEMORABILIA

Since 1976, Hornseys has established itself as a trusted source for collectors and enthusiasts seeking unique and eclectic items. Our commitment to quality and authenticity has earned us a reputation for excellence. Among our most collections is our extensive range of products related to Hergé’s iconic series, “The Adventures of Tintin”. This beloved series, which has captivated audiences for decades, is celebrated through our carefully curated selection of rare first edition books and exquisitely crafted 1/24 scale model cars, figures, and resin models. All of these items are available to view in our Ripon gallery.

WHY BUY FROM US?

At Hornseys, we only offer items that meet the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our inventory is carefully curated to ensure each piece is authentic and of high quality.

HERE’S WHAT SETS US APART

Authenticity and Provenance: Every item is researched, collated, and verified for authenticity.
Expert Curation: Each item is selected with a keen eye for historical significance, condition, and rarity, ensuring a collection that is both diverse and distinguished.
Customer Satisfaction: We strive to provide an exceptional customer experience, from detailed descriptions and provenance to secure and prompt delivery of your purchase.
Returns Policy: We offer an unconditional guarantee on every item. If you wish to make a return, items may be sent back to us within fourteen days of receipt for any reason. We request advance notification of returns, and items must be returned in the same condition as sent for a full refund.

EXPLORE OUR COLLECTION

Visit Hornseys to explore our fine collection of rare and antique prints, posters, models and photographs. Whether you are an avid collector or looking for a unique historical piece, our selection offers something truly exceptional. Located in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, our Ripon gallery has been a haven for art enthusiasts, historians, and collectors since 1976.

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