Steiff – EAN 660955 – British Collectors’ Teddy bear 2003 – Limited Edition

Maker: Steiff
Date: 2003
EAN: 660955
Edition: 513/4000
Price: £120 (Free Postage In The UK)
Material: Mohair
Size: 36cm
Care: Surface Washable
Condition: Fine condition with certificate and very good original Steiff box which is a little creased.

Item and packaging made in Germany, 2003.

British Collectors’ Teddy bear 2003: A Brief Description

The Steiff British Collectors’ Teddy Bear for 2003 (EAN 660955) is a fine representation of Steiff’s dedication to traditional bear-making and remains a cherished entry in the long-standing annual series dedicated to collectors in the United Kingdom. Standing at 36cm tall, this bear embodies classic Edwardian character, charm, and superb craftsmanship.

Materials and Craftsmanship

Crafted from the finest mohair in a soft, traditional yellow hue, this limited edition bear evokes the golden-era teddy bears of the early 20th century. The mohair is luxuriously long and slightly wavy, lending the bear a touch of nostalgic elegance and texture. It reflects light subtly, giving the coat a warm, almost honeyed appearance. The colour is soft yet rich, with gentle variation that enhances the sense of age and character.

Detailing

This bear is fully five-way jointed, allowing for smooth movement of the head, arms, and legs. The joints are firm and well-engineered, offering just the right degree of resistance, enabling the bear to hold classic seated or standing positions. The limbs are traditionally shaped – long and slightly curved – with careful stitching that follows vintage bear design. The bear’s face is a triumph of expression: deeply-set, glossy glass eyes give a soulful, intelligent look, while the hand-stitched nose and mouth, sewn in a deep brown thread, bring a delicate touch of personality. The nose is stitched in the traditional vertical fashion, and the mouth features a gentle downward curve, evoking a contemplative, timeless expression. A squeaker is hidden within the body cavity and emits a nostalgic squeak when gently pressed – a charming nod to the teddy bears of the early 1900s and a delightful feature for collectors who appreciate authenticity and historical detail. The bear’s paw pads are crafted from a soft, high-quality felt in a complementary shade of yellow.

Limited Edition Features

As with all Steiff collector’s editions, it bears the signature gold-plated “Button in Ear” and accompanying white ear tag, indicating its status as a limited edition release made exclusively for the British market. The British Collectors’ Teddy Bear 2003 was produced in a strictly limited quantity, each piece individually numbered, reinforcing its collectability and exclusivity.

Presentation and Significance

Presented in a Steiff box with certificate, it is an ideal piece for any serious Steiff or teddy bear collection. Altogether, this bear is a refined and affectionate homage to Steiff’s historical roots, combining traditional materials and techniques with elegant design and a reverent nod to heritage. It is a treasured piece for collectors who appreciate both beauty and legacy in their Steiff bears.

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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