Gabrielle Designs – Paddington Bear – Red Coat – 1972

Maker: Gabrielle Designs
Date: 1972
UK Registration No.: 957892
Price: £105 (Free Postage In The UK)
Size: Approximately 50cm
Material: Plush
Care: Surface clean only
Condition: Used – slight wear to the back of the jacket, but in fine condition overall

Item handmade in England.

Gabrielle Designs Paddington Bear: A Brief Description

Gabrielle Designs introduced their original Paddington Bear in 1972, an iconic creation that captured the charm and whimsy of Michael Bond’s beloved character. Each bear was handmade in England, a hallmark of the brand’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship. These bears were instantly recognisable by their thoughtful details and vintage aesthetic.

The Paddington Bear from Gabrielle Designs featured a soft, plush body with a fixed, endearing expression. The bear’s paws were carefully crafted and featured Gabrielle Designs’ signature paw prints on the soles.

Dressed in his trademark outfit, Paddington wore a felt duffle coat, complete with wooden toggles and loops, echoing a classic British style. His coat came in a range of colours, but red and blue were the most popular. The coat had a charming label, reading, “Please look after this bear. Thank you.” This nod to the books added a nostalgic element that delighted collectors and fans alike.

Paddington’s iconic hat was made of felt, typically in a matching or complementary colour to his coat. It was soft and slightly oversized, sitting snugly atop his head. The outfit was completed with a pair of rubber Wellington boots which gave him a sturdy and practical appearance.

This bear remains a timeless example of exceptional craftsmanship and storytelling brought to life, treasured by both collectors and admirers of British design.

Paddington: A Short Biography

Paddington Bear is a cherished and iconic character, recognised for his endearing personality and timeless charm. Originating from darkest Peru, he is a small, friendly bear with a fondness for marmalade and a knack for finding himself in amusing and sometimes chaotic situations.

He is instantly recognisable by his red duffle coat, complete with wooden toggle fastenings, and his green bush hat, which he received from his Uncle Pastuzo. Often seen carrying his well-worn brown suitcase, adorned with travel stickers, Paddington’s adventurous spirit and love of exploring new places are key aspects of his character. The suitcase often holds a secret stash of marmalade sandwiches, his favourite snack, which he keeps for emergencies.

A key feature of Paddington is the handwritten label attached to him that reads, “Please look after this bear. Thank you.” This tag symbolises his journey from Peru to London and serves as a gentle reminder of his need for care and kindness.

Paddington’s charmingly polite and well-meaning nature, coupled with his knack for turning everyday occurrences into extraordinary adventures, has made him a beloved figure for generations. His character embodies values of kindness, curiosity, and resilience, making him an enduring symbol of warmth and joy.

Michael Bond: A Short Biography

Michael Bond was a celebrated British author best known as the creator of Paddington Bear. Born in 1926 in Newbury, Berkshire, he began his career as a BBC cameraman before achieving literary fame with the publication of A Bear Called Paddington in 1958. Inspired by a toy bear he bought for his wife, Paddington became a beloved character worldwide, known for his charm, mischief, and love of marmalade. Bond wrote numerous books featuring Paddington, alongside other works for children and adults, cementing his legacy as one of Britain’s most cherished storytellers. He passed away in 2017.

Why Buy from Us?

At Hornseys, we are committed to offering items that meet the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our collection of objects and fine gifts is meticulously curated to ensure that it reflects refined taste and elegance.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Authenticity and Provenance: Every range is thoroughly researched and vetted to ensure that it meets our exacting standards.
• Expert Curation: We select each range with an eye for tastefulness, refinement, condition, and visual appeal.
• Customer Satisfaction: We strive to provide an exceptional customer experience, from detailed descriptions to secure and prompt delivery.
• Returns Policy: We offer an unconditional guarantee on every item. If you wish to make a return, any item may be sent back to us within fourteen days of receipt for any reason. We request advance notification of returns, and items must be returned in the same condition as sent for a full refund.

Explore Our Collection:

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

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