Sunday, September 29, 2013

The Art of Play: A Pull-Along Bear, 1920


Pull-Along Toy
German, c. 1920
The Victoria & Albert Museum

By the 1920’s, toy manufacturers were often producing cuddly teddy bears that offered snuggly companionship to youngsters. However, some manufacturers recognized that many children preferred more active and realistic toys, and, in response to that produced soft animals which were more natural looking than their cute counterparts. These toys were regularly mounted on wheeled platforms so that their child could move them around easily.


This Pull-Along Bear dates to about 1920 is comes from an unknown German manufacturer. Still in excellent condition, his wood frame shows more wear than does his mohair coat. No doubt, he was rolled more than he was cuddled.

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