Steiff – EAN 408519 – Teddy Bear 1953 – Limited Edition – 2004

Maker: Steiff
EAN: 408519
Edition: 1760/3000
Price: £145 (Free Postage In The UK)
Material: Mohair
Size: 35 cm
Care: Surface Washable
Condition: Fine condition with certificate, original box and chest tag.  Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Made in Germany, 2004

Teddy Bear 1953: A Brief Description

The Steiff 408519 Teddy Bear 1953 is a striking and historically inspired piece, produced in 2004 as part of a limited edition of just 3,000 bears worldwide. Measuring 35 cm in height, this bear was created to pay tribute to Steiff’s post-war designs, encapsulating the spirit and styling of the early 1950s with exceptional craftsmanship and attention to period detail.

Materials and Craftsmanship

Crafted from the finest black mohair, his coat is rich and dense, with a deep lustre that lends an air of sophistication and distinction. The black colouring is both bold and elegant, making this bear immediately stand out in any collection. His mohair has a slightly firm texture, characteristic of traditional Steiff teddy bears, and is carefully cut to highlight the contours of his head, limbs, and torso. His face is defined by expressive glass eyes, which glisten against the dark backdrop of his mohair. The eyes are a warm amber-brown with black pupils, lending contrast and depth, and recreating the classic Steiff look of the 1950s. His nose and mouth are hand-stitched in brown thread, giving a subtle but clear outline that blends harmoniously with his coat. The slightly pointed snout and broad forehead are faithful to mid-century Steiff bear design, while his upright ears are neatly positioned, rounded, and trimmed for crisp definition.

Inside, he contains a traditional squeaker, allowing him to give a nostalgic sound when gently pressed. This charming feature brings him to life and provides a direct link with the classic toys of the period, evoking memories of childhood and Steiff’s enduring commitment to playability as well as collectability. He is fully jointed, with moveable head, arms, and legs, allowing him to be posed in a variety of positions. His paw pads are made from beige felt, offering a pleasing contrast to his black mohair. His proportions are classic and well-balanced with a solid body.

Presentation and Significance

The bear proudly carries the unmistakable Steiff button-in-ear, signifying his pedigree and authenticity. For this edition, the ear tag is white with black lettering, denoting his status as a limited edition piece. He was released complete with a numbered certificate of authenticity and a Steiff presentation box, underscoring his collectable value and his place within the brand’s heritage line. The Steiff Teddy Bear 1953 is both a faithful homage to a beloved era in the company’s history and a sophisticated collector’s bear in his own right. With his glossy black mohair, traditional squeaker, and mid-century styling, he offers a combination of nostalgia, craftsmanship, and rarity that makes him a treasured addition to any serious Steiff collection.

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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