$550.00
A charming and characterful Dutch mohair teddy bear dating from the 1930s, attributed to Arthur van Gelden.
The bear retains its wonderfully expressive period appearance, with golden mohair, distinctive pointed ears and muzzle, enamelled eyes and nose, and traditional early construction. The broad feet, compact proportions and unusual facial treatment give this bear a particularly appealing character. Movable mouth too!
Showing the expected wear and thinning to the mohair from many decades of handling and affection, the bear nevertheless presents beautifully and retains a good covering overall. He is dressed in a later hand-knitted charcoal wool cardigan with contrasting detail and three buttons.
At just over 30 cm tall, this is a delightful example of an early European teddy bear and an appealing collectable in its own right, with considerably more interest than a later mass-produced bear.