Steiff – EAN 420047 – Original Steiff Teddy Bear 1908 Replica – Steiff Club Edition 1994

Maker: Steiff, made in Germany 1994
EAN: 420047
Number: 6620
Price: £125 (Free Postage In The UK)
Material: Mohair
Size: 35 cm
Condition: Fine condition with certificate and original box.

Condition:

This bear is in fine condition with original tag on blue thread.  The certificate is rolled up with its original ribbon and the porcelain chest tag is also on its original blue ribbon.  The box is in good condition, some signs of wear, but good overall.  The joints are tight, allowing for good poseability.  This bear also has a working growler.  Please contact us for more details if required.

Original Steiff Teddy Bear 1908: A Brief Description

The Steiff 420047 is a masterful 35 cm replica of a 1908 original, released in 1994 as an exclusive edition for the Steiff Club. This particular model is instantly recognisable by its striking blue mohair coat, a colour choice that pays homage to the rare, experimental dye palettes used by Steiff during the early 20th century. Designed with a traditional “Pre-War” silhouette, the bear features the classic humped back, elongated limbs, and a shaved muzzle. As a five-way jointed piece, its head, arms, and legs are fully articulated, allowing it to be posed with the dignified posture characteristic of antique teddy bears.

Materials and Craftsmanship

The construction of this bear is a meticulous exercise in historical accuracy. The outer pelt is crafted from premium mohair, providing a lustrous, textured finish that is both durable and aesthetically pleasing. Internally, the bear is stuffed with excelsior (finely shredded wood wool), a traditional filling method that gives the piece a firm, sturdy weight and a nostalgic “crunch” when handled. Its facial features are hand-finished with black embroidery for the nose and claws, shoe button eyes, reflecting the light with a depth and soulfulness that modern materials cannot replicate. The paw pads are made of high-quality wool felt, providing a soft contrast to the coarse texture of the blue mohair.

Presentation and Significance

This replica holds considerable weight among collectors as it represents the prestige of the Steiff Club’s early years. It is distinguished by the white ear tag and the iconic “Button in Ear,” which denote its status as a limited production run rather than a standard retail item. This bear is presented with a porcelain medallion hung around its neck, further cementing its identity as a commemorative 1994 release. Its significance lies in its ability to bridge the gap between 1908 and the modern era, offering enthusiasts a chance to own a “lost” piece of Steiff history that would otherwise be nearly impossible to find in its original antique form.

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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