Up for sale is a wonderfully charming, authentic early 20th-century teddy bear measuring approximately 16 inches from head to toe. This bear is a classic example of pre-WWII commercial toy craftsmanship, boasting the soulful character and patina that only comes with generations of love.
While it lacks a manufacturer's button or tag, its distinct structural features strongly point to an early German or British origin (Steiff, Chiltern, or Chad Valley style).
Key Features & Construction:
Material: Woven golden mohair fur with visible natural thinning and aging that reveals the authentic burlap/jute backing underneath.
Structure: Fully jointed with internal metal disk joints allowing the head, arms, and legs to fully swivel.
Anatomy: Features a classic prominent hump on the upper back and long, subtly curved arms characteristic of early bear patterns.
Muzzle: A beautiful, distinctive multi-piece shaved inset muzzle.
Eyes: Antique back-painted glass or boot-button style eyes.
Stuffing: Firmly stuffed, consistent with period-correct excelsior (wood wool) or kapok.
Condition & Historic Repairs:
This bear is in well-loved antique condition and displays incredible folk-art appeal. It features historic "home surgery" repairs that add immense personality and tell the story of its long life:
The hand and foot pads have been neatly covered in a vintage ribbed corduroy fabric—a very common period-correct repair for worn-out original felt.
The nose and mouth have been lovingly reinforced with heavy black embroidery thread over the original worn stitching.
There is overall mohair loss, particularly around the face, muzzle, and seams, which is entirely typical for a genuine survivor bear of this age.
Please review all photos carefully as they serve as the ultimate description of condition and wear. Selling as-found to preserve its historic character.