Large Vintage 1950s Mohair Teddy Bear, Possibly Chad Valley, 46 cm

A handsome large vintage teddy bear, measuring approximately 46 cm high, probably English and possibly by Chad Valley. The bear has many characteristics associated with post-war Chad Valley bears of the 1950s, including golden mohair plush, amber and black eyes, a black stitched nose and mouth, rexine-style paw pads, a fully jointed body and an internal growler mechanism. There is also a small remnant of a cloth label visible at the side seam, although it is too fragmentary to provide a firm maker’s attribution.

The bear has a particularly appealing expression, with a broad rounded head, inset ears, short clipped muzzle, large rounded body and long jointed limbs. He is shown both dressed and undressed in the photographs; the shirt and dungarees are included but are later additions and should not be regarded as original to the bear.

The colour variation is notable: the areas formerly covered by the outfit have retained a stronger golden tone, while the exposed areas have faded to a paler honey colour. This gives a useful indication of age and display history. The internal growler is present but does not work reliably.

Condition

Good vintage condition with age-related wear. The mohair has good overall coverage but shows fading and colour variation, particularly where the bear has been exposed outside the clothing. The paw pads and hand pads show rubbing, cracking and surface losses. There is general wear to the plush, seams and extremities, consistent with age and handling. The side seam retains only a small remnant of a cloth label, so the maker cannot be confirmed with certainty. The internal growler is present but does not reliably operate. Later clothing is included and shows wear, fraying and age marks.

Maker: Possibly Chad Valley; English manufacture, attributed on style and construction.

Date: Circa 1950s.

Height: 46 cm.

Material: Golden mohair plush, rexine-style pads, glass or plastic amber and black eyes, stitched textile nose and mouth, internal stuffing and growler mechanism.

Construction: Fully jointed teddy bear with swivel head, jointed arms and legs, stitched facial detail, applied paw pads and internal tilt growler.

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.

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