Steiff – EAN 356056 – Elphaba Wicked Witch of the West – Limited Edition – 2025

Maker: Steiff
Date: 2025
EAN: 356056
Edition: Edition of 939 pieces
Price: £179 (Free Postage In The UK)
Material: Wool plush
Size: 18cm
Condition: Brand new in unopened box. A stock photograph has been used as the box for this item is sealed.

Elphaba: A Brief Description

The Steiff EAN 356056 Elphaba Wicked Witch of the West is a captivating and theatrical collector’s piece for 2025, presented as a limited edition creation in celebration of the enduring allure of Wicked and The Wizard of Oz. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail by Steiff’s master artisans, this 18cm character bear represents Elphaba, the green-skinned witch whose story of misjudgement and misunderstood heroism has captivated audiences around the world.

Materials and Craftsmanship

Elphaba is crafted from the finest quality green wool plush—a material chosen not only for its tactile richness but also for its vintage charm, harking back to classic Steiff bears of the early 20th century. The plush has a beautifully soft texture with a delicate nap, and its rich emerald hue immediately evokes the witch’s iconic appearance. This is a deliberately vibrant shade, lending her a magical, theatrical air while remaining deeply rooted in Steiff’s tradition of premium textiles.

Detailing

The bear is five-way jointed, allowing for gentle posing of the head, arms, and legs, which adds to her expressive presence. Her limbs move smoothly, yet retain the firmness expected from a display-quality figure. She is softly but firmly stuffed, giving her a solid and reassuring weight when held. Elphaba’s face has been embroidered with exceptional finesse. Her piercing black eyes, set in with Steiff’s signature precision, give her a determined and intelligent expression—neither menacing nor meek, but rather thoughtful and strong-willed, as befits the complex character she embodies. Her hand-stitched black nose and subtly arched brows further enhance this sense of quiet power. The signature Steiff button in ear and accompanying white tag mark her as a genuine limited edition and reflect her collectable status. Elphaba is dressed in a fully realised interpretation of the Wicked Witch’s attire. She wears a fitted, floor-length black dress fashioned from fine satin flaring slightly at the hem. Atop her head sits the unmistakable witch’s hat: tall, pointed, and slightly curved at the tip, crafted from a stiffer felt with a satin band. The hat is securely attached but lightly tilted for character. She also carries a miniature broomstick, delicately made from wood and straw, bound at the handle with thread. This accessory, while small, is beautifully formed and gives the piece a storytelling quality that draws in the viewer.

Presentation and Significance

This Elphaba is a limited edition for 2025 and will be produced in a worldwide edition of only 939 pieces, ensuring exclusivity. Each bear is individually numbered and comes with a Steiff certificate of authenticity. She is presented in a Steiff gift box, making her an ideal gift or addition to a high-end bear or musical theatre collection. At just 18cm tall, she is compact enough for display on a shelf or in a cabinet, yet detailed enough to draw attention and admiration. She represents not only a character from a beloved musical, but also the high standards of craftsmanship and storytelling for which Steiff is known. Steiff’s Elphaba Wicked Witch of the West (EAN 356056) is a masterful blend of narrative, design, and tradition. With her expressive face, luxurious wool plush, and finely tailored costume, she brings the misunderstood heroine to life in a format that is both enchanting and eminently collectable. A true celebration of both the performing arts and the artistry of Steiff.

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.

(BR)