The National Library of Wales is to purchase a collection of original and iconic cartoons by Blaenau Ffestiniog illustrator Mal Humphreys, a visually recognisable collection which illustrates almost every important political event in Wales since the 1990s.

Mal Humphreys, or Mumph, is known as one of Wales’ most talented cartoonists.

Since 1991 he has regularly contributed cartoons to The Independent and The Western Mail as well as The Welsh Mirror, Daily Post, Golwg, Y Fanner, Y Cymro and Lol.

He has also produced works for television programmes on BBC1, BBC Wales, ITV and S4C.

The National Library of Wales plans to purchase Mumph’s complete archive of over 3,200 cartoons, along with their copyright.

This extensive archive was created at a crucial time in the history of Wales, during the period of devolution. Mumph, who know lives in Ceredigion, also illustrated many cartoons relating to significant British and world events.

The original versions belonging to his Cwm Offit series, which Mumph created for the South Wales Echo, will also form a part of the collection.

The library will use its new Collections Fund to assist in purchasing the Mumph archive.

The Collections Fund was created as a means to enable the library to purchase significant items when they come on the market.

The National Library of Wales constantly develops its collections through crucial purchases, which ensure that the organisation remains relevant to national life and continues to gather information and items for future generations, a spokesperson said.

The library aims to raise £25,000 in order to obtain the Mumph archive for these purposes.

Pedr ap Llwyd, chief executive and librarian of the National Library of Wales, said: “The library is full of treasures. Some are in the form of ancient manuscripts, rare books, unique maps, thrilling artwork, exquisite film and sound and photographs that are of age-old records of Wales. And now we welcome a very different form treasures to the library, and absolutely unique treasures that we have to preserve for those who follow us.

“Alongside the library’s acknowledged treasures, Mumph’s cartoons will add value to our wealth of collections.”

Lona Mason, head of graphic, screen and sound at the National Library of Wales, added: “The National Library is the natural home for Mumph’s cartoons, and we’re looking forward to preserving and sharing them so people can explore and enjoy the collection.”

Mal Humphreys said: “It is the greatest honour to be recognised by my own country through the National Library of Wales; my life’s work to be kept until the end of man’s time on Earth.”