Chad Valley Miniature Mohair Teddy Bear with Red Felt Boots, c.1935–1950

This charming miniature Chad Valley teddy bear is a particularly appealing survivor from the mid-twentieth century, retaining its distinctive red felt-covered feet and original Chad Valley Hygienic Toys label sewn to one sole. Standing in an expressive upright pose with one arm raised, the bear displays many of the characteristics associated with smaller Chad Valley productions of the late 1930s through the post-war period.

Constructed in golden mohair plush over a firmly stuffed body, the bear features glass eyes, a hand-stitched nose and mouth, and the broad flat ears that are often considered a hallmark of Chad Valley manufacture. The surviving woven foot label provides important evidence of origin and confirms production by Chad Valley’s Hygienic Toys division in England. Similar labels were used on Chad Valley bears from the 1930s onwards and are particularly useful in establishing authenticity.

The vivid red felt feet are an especially attractive feature. Whilst Chad Valley is best known for conventional golden bears with brown or beige pads, the company also produced novelty and characterful designs incorporating coloured felt feet and footwear, particularly in smaller nursery and gift bears. The combination of diminutive size, upright stance and bright red feet gives this example considerable display appeal.

Well-loved and retaining honest signs of age, the bear possesses the character and charm sought by collectors of British teddy bears. Examples of this size are increasingly difficult to find with their original labels intact.

Maker: Chad Valley (Hygienic Toys Division)
Date: c.1935–1950
Origin: England
Materials: Mohair plush, felt, glass eyes, kapok and wood wool stuffing
Height: 19 cm standing height
Condition: Good vintage condition. Retaining original mohair covering, glass eyes and Chad Valley Hygienic Toys foot label. The red felt feet show age-related wear, rubbing and losses consistent with use. General wear commensurate with age. Displays well.

Why Buy from Hornseys?

For almost fifty years, Hornseys has specialised in sourcing, researching and offering carefully selected works of art, rare books, antiques and collectable objects. Every Chad Valley teddy bear offered for sale is examined individually and catalogued with the same attention to detail that we apply throughout our business.

Expertise and Research

Our descriptions are based on careful first-hand examination and supported by research into Chad Valley manufacturing history, Royal Warrant labels, materials, construction methods and comparable recorded examples. Where possible, we identify date ranges, model characteristics, original features and any later alterations to provide collectors with accurate and transparent information.

Authenticity and Provenance

Authenticity is fundamental to our approach. We assess each bear for period materials, labels, construction details and condition, clearly noting restorations, replacements or associated items where known. We believe buyers should have confidence that every description reflects the object as it is, not as we would like it to be.

Condition Reporting

Vintage teddy bears inevitably show signs of age and use. We provide honest condition assessments, accompanied by comprehensive photography, so collectors can make informed decisions. Any wear, repairs, losses or alterations are described as accurately as possible.

Carefully Curated Selection

We do not aim to offer large quantities of stock. Instead, we focus on finding examples that possess quality, character, historical interest and visual appeal. Whether a bear is a rare early Chad Valley example or a charming post-war companion, it must meet our standards before being offered for sale.

Established Reputation

Hornseys has been serving collectors and enthusiasts since 1976. From our gallery in Ripon, on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, we have built a reputation for knowledgeable cataloguing, careful packing and personal customer service.

Our Guarantee

Every item is sold with an unconditional guarantee. If you are not entirely satisfied with your purchase, you may return it within fourteen days of receipt for any reason, provided it is returned in the same condition in which it was supplied. We simply ask that you notify us in advance of any return.

Explore Our Chad Valley Collection

From early mohair bears to post-war Royal Warrant examples, our Chad Valley collection celebrates one of Britain’s most important toy manufacturers. Each bear is selected for its authenticity, character and collectability, offering collectors the opportunity to acquire genuine pieces of British teddy bear history.

Visit Hornseys to discover our curated selection of Chad Valley bears, fine art, rare books and collectable objects from our Yorkshire Dales gallery, established in 1976.

(L)