Steiff – EAN 031212 – Historic Steiff Miniatures VI Polar Bear (1950)

Maker: Steiff
EAN: 031212
Edition: Not a limited edition
Price: £75 (Free Postage In The UK)
Material: Mohair
Size: 15cm
Care: Surface Washable
Condition: Fine condition with original labels. This bear does not have a Steiff box.

Made in Germany, 1997.

Polar Bear (1950): A Brief Description

The Steiff 031212 Polar Bear Replica 1950 is a finely crafted collector’s piece from the esteemed Historic Miniatures VI series, reflecting Steiff’s tradition of precision craftsmanship and nostalgic charm. Measuring 15 centimetres in length, this standing polar bear embodies both the innocence of childhood and the enduring appeal of vintage toy design.

Materials and Craftsmanship

Its body is covered in pale cream mohair, a luxurious and subtly textured fabric derived from the fleece of the Angora goat. This mohair has a soft finish that evokes the gentle, downy appearance of a young polar bear cub, rather than the stark white of a mature Arctic animal. The tone leans delicately towards ivory, lending the bear a warm and timeworn aesthetic, reminiscent of early 20th-century soft toys.

Detailing

The bear stands firmly on all four legs, with a sturdy internal structure that gives it poise and permanence. Its stitched claws and nose are precisely embroidered, offering a contrast to the cream mohair and drawing attention to the bear’s carefully considered detailing. The small, dark glass eyes are positioned to convey a gentle, inquisitive expression — calm yet alert — imbuing the bear with a lifelike presence that is both endearing and subtly noble. Around its neck is a blue leather collar, a distinctive feature of this replica, fitted with a miniature brass bell that produces a faint, pleasing chime when moved. This collar serves as a nostalgic nod to the vintage original from 1950, adding a touch of whimsy and personality to the piece.

Presentation and Significance

The classic Steiff button-in-ear, a hallmark of authenticity, is present in the bear’s left ear, accompanied by a white tag bearing the model number and replica designation. This signifies its limited-edition status and place within the Historic Miniatures series, celebrating Steiff’s archival treasures. Overall, the Steiff 031212 standing polar bear is an exquisite homage to mid-century Steiff artistry — a charming and tactile object that will delight both seasoned collectors and admirers of traditional toy-making heritage.

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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