Charlie Bears – Isabelle Bears – EAN SJ6059 – Tom Foolery – Limited Edition – 2020 – NEW

Maker: Charlie Bears
Date: 2020
EAN: SJ6059
Edition: No. 263/300
Price: £195 (Free Postage in the UK)
Material: 100% Mohair
Size: 30 cm
Care: Surface Washable
Condition: Fine condition.

Item handmade in Thailand. Bear and embroidered Isabelle Collection bag in fine condition. THIS IS A BRAND NEW ITEM AND HAS NOT BEEN PREVIOUSLY SOLD.

Isabelle Bears – Tom Foolery: A Brief Description

Tom Foolery is a mischievously charming bear from the 2020 Isabelle Collection. His name reflects his playful, whimsical character, which shines through in both his design and expression. He is a smaller bear with a lively personality, making him a delightful addition to any collector’s display. He was produced in a strict limited edition of 300 pieces worldwide, each accompanied by an individually numbered certificate of authenticity. Tom Foolery measures approximately 30 cm (12 inches) in height, making him a compact yet striking piece within the Isabelle range.

Material and Craftsmanship

This bear is made entirely from premium mohair, chosen for its luxurious feel and natural sheen. The fibres are presented in warm russet and treacle browns giving depth and variation to his coat. The fur is styled with a slightly tousled finish, enhancing his mischievous personality. Areas of shorter pile around the muzzle and inner ears contrast beautifully with the longer fibres elsewhere, emphasising his facial features and overall shape. Tom Foolery’s face is sculpted with great care to capture an inquisitive and cheeky look. His muzzle is delicately trimmed and airbrushed to soften the shading, and his hand-stitched nose is neatly finished in thread that complements his rich fur tones. His bright glass eyes sparkle with life, framed by subtle shading to bring depth and warmth. His paw pads are crafted from ultrasuede in a soft, neutral shade, sculpted and shaded to add realism with fine stitched claws to complete the look. His limbs are lightly weighted, giving him a pleasing balance and a comfortable feel when handled. Fully five-way jointed, Tom Foolery can be gently posed to suit his mood, whether leaning inquisitively or sitting upright with pride. He wears a ruffle around his neck and a jester hat with iridescent bells, carefully selected to reflect his name and personality. These finishing touches enhance his individuality, complementing his colour palette without overwhelming his character.

Presentation and Significance

Being a limited edition piece, Tom Foolery was produced in a restricted worldwide quantity, each bear individually numbered to affirm its exclusivity. He comes with a certificate of authenticity and the signature Isabelle Collection fabric tag. He is presented in a protective Isabelle canvas bag, reflecting the premium nature of this collection.

Charlie Bears: A Brief History

Charlie Bears is a popular British collectible teddy bear company, founded in November 2005 by Charlotte (“Charlie”) and William Morris in Cornwall, England. The company is known for its charming and meticulously crafted teddy bears and other plush animals, appealing to both collectors and gift buyers alike.

The Founding Vision

Charlie and William Morris established the company with the idea of creating high-quality, affordable bears that were “bears with personalities.” Charlie had a lifelong love of teddy bears and wanted to share this passion with others. The company began modestly, with a small collection of just 12 bears launched in February 2006. These initial designs proved an instant success, selling out quickly and establishing Charlie Bears as a name to watch in the world of collectible plush toys.

Design Philosophy

The company’s ethos centres on creating teddy bears that are “too cute to resist,” with each piece meticulously designed to exude character and charm. Many of the bears are made from high-quality plush fabrics, and the company also offers a line of mohair bears for those seeking more traditional, heirloom-style collectibles.

Charlie Bears employs a team of in-house designers, including Charlie herself, who collaborates with renowned teddy bear artists such as Isabelle Lee. These collaborations have resulted in several unique collections, each with its own distinct style and appeal.

Key Collections

1. The Plush Collection: The heart of Charlie Bears, featuring a wide variety of designs crafted from soft, tactile materials. These bears are designed to be both affordable and collectible, making them a favourite among a wide audience.
2. Isabelle Collection: Named after Isabelle Lee, this range includes luxurious, limited-edition bears made from mohair and alpaca. These are often hand-finished, making each piece unique.
3. Minimos: A range of miniature collectible bears, typically around 6 inches tall, crafted from fine materials like mohair.
4. Bearhouse Bears: A more affordable range aimed at younger collectors or those new to the hobby. These non-jointed bears are designed to be child-friendly.

Production and Limited Editions

Charlie Bears are crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Each bear is handmade, with hand-stitched noses, expressive eyes, and unique accessories like ribbons or charms. The company often releases its bears as limited editions, heightening their desirability among collectors.

Growth and Global Appeal

Since its founding, Charlie Bears has grown exponentially, expanding its operations beyond the UK to reach collectors around the world. The brand now has a presence in over 40 countries, with a particularly strong following in Australia, the United States, and Europe.

The company’s success can also be attributed to its strong sense of community. Collectors are affectionately referred to as “Charlie Bears Best Friends” (CBFs), and the brand fosters a loyal following through regular events, exclusive club memberships, and direct communication with fans via social media and dedicated TV shopping channels.

The Gallery and Museum

In 2016, Charlie Bears opened “The Bearhouse” in Launceston, Cornwall. This gallery and museum serves as both the company’s headquarters and a hub for enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the world of Charlie Bears, view historical designs, and even meet Charlie herself during special events.

Legacy and Impact

Charlie Bears has become a beloved part of the collectible teddy bear world. The brand’s combination of whimsical design, high-quality craftsmanship, and affordability has secured its place in the hearts of collectors and gift-givers alike. With its ongoing commitment to creating “bears with personalities,” Charlie Bears continues to delight and inspire a global audience.

Why Buy from Us?

At Hornseys, we are dedicated to offering items that meet the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our collection reflects refined taste and timeless elegance.

What Sets Us Apart?

• Authenticity and Provenance: Every range is thoroughly researched and vetted to meet exacting standards.
• Expert Curation: Carefully selected for tastefulness, refinement, and visual appeal.
• Customer Satisfaction: Detailed descriptions, secure packaging, and prompt delivery ensure an exceptional experience.
• Returns Policy: We provide an unconditional guarantee. Items may be returned within 14 days of receipt for any reason, provided they are in the same condition as sent.

Explore Our Collection

Visit Hornseys in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales to discover our exceptional range of fine art, rare books, gifts, and objects. Located in Ripon, our gallery has been a haven for art lovers and collectors since 1976.

(BR)