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Rare Dark Brown Antique German Mohair Teddy Bear c1910 Bing Type 15”
Wonderful early German teddy bear dating to approximately 1905–1915, most likely circa 1910.
What makes this bear especially appealing is his unusual dark brown mohair, a much less commonly encountered color than the traditional golden or light brown bears of the period. He has a wonderfully serious, soulful early expression and measures approximately 15 inches tall when fully extended.
The bear has many features associated with very early German teddy bears, including a pronounced muzzle, black boot-button eyes, stitched black nose and mouth, long jointed limbs, felt paw pads, and an early hump-backed body shape.
I believe he was made in Germany and may possibly be by Bing or another quality German maker of the period. He is unmarked, however, so I am presenting Bing only as a possible attribution rather than a certainty.
His dark brown mohair remains quite attractive overall, though it is sparse in areas from age and use. The wear is especially noticeable on the right arm, with additional thinning across portions of the torso and limbs.
There is an area of loss on the top of one foot where the original excelsior/wood-wool stuffing is exposed. The center seam of the torso also appears to have had some old reinforcement or restitching. The felt paw pads show expected age, wear, and discoloration. There may be additional small old repairs, stitching, or areas of wear consistent with a teddy bear approximately 115 years old.
Despite his wear, he retains tremendous early character and displays beautifully. His uncommon dark brown coloring, early proportions, expressive face, and substantial size make him a particularly appealing example for a collection of antique teddy bears or early German toys.
Please examine all photographs carefully, as they are an important part of the condition description.
Measures approximately 15 inches tall when fully extended.
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