S e c r e t s

This “good-looking” vulture is sitting on a sawn-off elephant’s foot, resting his card on a hyena’s headless body, and composing a love poem: “Roses are red, violets are blue, I ate the head, but the heart is for you.“ The heart in question is gift wrapped and marked “To A” (Andrea). Inside the piece is another heart with the inscription “HKM.” Peter cannot remember the significance of these initials. Originally intended as a special 1997 Valentine’s piece, this box figurine was considered too tasteless and juvenile to release. Collectors learned of its existence, and by popular demand, it was released as the first HK “Banned Box,” in suitable black livery and limited to an edition of 3600. Due to a moulding flaw, many of the vultures are without toenails. “Valentine” and “14 FEB” appear on some early pieces. Hallmarks include ©, diamond, clock face with month 8, HBC logo, and Pc.