Merrythought – JP8PUN – Ancestor Of Cheeky Teddy Bear – Limited Edition

Maker: Merrythought
Product Number: JP8PUN
Edition: 550/1000
Price: £125 (Free Postage In The UK)
Material: Mohair
Size: 8 inches / 20 cm approximately
Care: Sponge clean only
Condition: Fine condition with original labels.  Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Made in England, late 1990s.

Ancestor Of Cheeky Teddy Bear: A Brief Description

The Merrythought JP8PUN “Ancestor of Cheeky” is a characterful limited edition teddy, created in a run of 1,000 pieces to celebrate the lineage that led to Merrythought’s beloved Cheeky bears.

Materials and Craftsmanship

Crafted in Ironbridge, Shropshire, it is made from premium mohair with a natural, gently lustrous pile that feels soft yet resilient under the fingertips. The mohair has been carefully cut and finished to accentuate the bear’s period-inspired silhouette, evoking early Merrythought designs while retaining the playful personality collectors associate with the Cheeky family. At first glance, the head shape tells the story: rounded yet well-defined, with subtly pronounced cheeks, a neat muzzle and forward-set ears that give the bear a bright, alert look. Traditional glass eyes catch the light, lending a lifelike sparkle, while the hand-embroidered nose and mouth provide a warm, slightly mischievous expression. The muzzle allows the sculpted profile to be read from every angle, and the ear placement is balanced so the bear looks equally charming seated on a shelf or nestled in the palm.

True to Merrythought’s time-honoured methods, the bear is five-way jointed. The joints operate with a pleasing, confident resistance so you can pose the head in an inquisitive tilt or set the arms to frame the torso without fear of looseness. The filling is carefully graded to achieve a satisfying, slightly weighted feel: firm enough to hold its shape over decades of display, yet soft where it matters to invite the occasional cuddle. A distinctive hallmark of this edition is its orange felt trousers, a joyous splash of colour that nods to vintage toy wardrobes. The bear’s paw pads are fashioned from felt and the right foot carries Merrythought’s woven label – an assurance of origin and quality – while a matching label provides the number within the edition.

Presentation and Significance

Each example of this delightful bear is individually numbered as part of the limited edition of 1,000 and is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, marking it out as a true collector’s piece. Proportioned for versatile display, compact enough for a small plinth yet substantial in presence, this bear sits beautifully, with poised posture. The mohair’s subtle sheen means the bear photographs well, whether against a neutral backdrop or among a grouping of period companions. The palette of honeyed mohair against vivid orange makes for a striking contrast, ensuring it reads clearly at a glance even in a larger collection. The Merrythought JP8PUN “Ancestor of Cheeky” is a delightful fusion of heritage design, meticulous hand-finishing and spirited styling – a bear with history in its bones and a dash of modern colour at its heart.

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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