Hand Drawn Animation Appraisal

Original Pokémon Production Cel and Drawing (Pikachu)

This item is an original production cel and matching drawing, from the early period of the Pokémon anime, specifically from the first TV animation series that began broadcasting in 1997. The cel itself measures approximately 228mm x 263mm (9" x 10.4") and depicts Pikachu, the iconic yellow electric-type Pokémon, in a dynamic pose, appearing to be in motion. Pikachu is rendered with its characteristic yellow fur, red cheeks, black-tipped ears, and brown stripes on its back, with its lightning bolt-shaped tail prominently featured. The artwork is presented within a ornate, gold-colored, rococo-style frame with intricate scrollwork and floral motifs, which suggests it is displayed as a valuable piece of art, although this frame might be for exhibition purposes rather than its original presentation. The background, which features a lush green forest with prominent tree trunks and lighter arboreal foliage behind, is noted as 'not original,' implying it was likely created for display purposes or added later, rather than being the production background used during animation. A smaller inset image on the page shows what appears to be the original pencil drawing or sketch corresponding to the cel, highlighting the meticulous process of traditional hand-drawn animation. Given its 1997 release year and the transition to digital production in 2002, this cel represents a valuable artifact from a significant era in Japanese animation where celluloid images were still predominantly used. The item exhibits excellent craftsmanship, as typical of professional animation cels, with crisp lines and vibrant, uniform color application on the character. No significant visible condition issues such as cracks, fading, or paint loss are apparent on the cel itself, suggesting good preservation. The reference number 521-107A002 is also visible, likely an inventory or catalog identifier.