Steiff – EAN 666995 – The Gray Wolf – Limited Edition – 2003

Maker: Steiff
EAN: 666995
Edition: 1267/1500
Price: £230 (Free Postage In The UK)
Material: Mohair
Size: 26 cm
Care: Surface Washable
Condition: Fine condition with certificate and Steiff black canvas bag.  Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Made in Germany, 2003

The Gray Wolf: A Brief Description

Rising to a height of 26 centimetres, The Gray Wolf is a masterfully crafted piece from the Last Frontier series, produced in 2003 in an exclusive limited run of 1,500. This compact yet expressive animal figure brings together Steiff’s celebrated heritage and a deep respect for natural realism.

Materials and Craftsmanship

This wolf is fashioned from premium, hand-tufted mohair in a subtle intermingling of silvery-grey and charcoal tones. The fur captures the authentic nuance of a wolf’s wild coat, the fibres trimmed to varying lengths to mirror nature: shorter and denser at the limbs and saddle, longer and slightly flowing at the neck and haunches, evoking the wild undulations of a living animal’s pelt. The face is vividly sculpted—expressive, knowing, and alive. Deep-set glass eyes, in a warm golden-brown, glimmer with a hint of amber, radiating both intensity and intellect. These eyes are framed by subtle shadings, lending emphasis to their arresting depth. His snout tapers to a hand-embroidered nose with fine stitches that suggest a damp, living texture. A narrowly curved mouth hints at a quiet, dignified countenance rather than an overt threat.

The wolf’s ears are attentive and pricked—medium in size, softly rounded, carefully positioned and shaded with darker mohair tips that draw the gaze inward. His neck is gently extended, and his body is poised in a state of readiness, as though caught in mid-moment—frost on the ground, a silent watchfulness in the forest. The balanced proportions of torso, legs, and tail offer a natural elegance: sturdy enough to convey strength, yet refined in their sculpt that speaks of grace.

Slightly curved and livelily fanned, the tail is thick, its mohair subtly longer at the tip to suggest a luxuriously full brush. The paw pads are hand-embroidered with claws that are delicately defined by tight, darker stitches. The coat’s shading is purposeful—paler at the throat and flanks, deepening to darker tones over his back and tail, seamlessly echoing the natural patterning of his wild counterpart.

Presentation and Significance

Firmly embedded in his left ear is the famous Steiff button-in-ear hallmark, gleaming brass with the classic “Steiff” script punched through its surface—a badge of pedigree and assurance. Since this is a limited edition piece, he bears a special white ear tag with red lettering stating his individual number, reinforcing his collectability. The Steiff 666995 “The Gray Wolf” embodies both natural power and serene elegance within its 26 cm non-jointed stature. Exquisitely made from mohair with lifelike gradations, it features deeply expressive eyes and delicately defined stitching. A symbol of Steiff’s craftsmanship and a tribute to the spirit of the wilderness, this wolf stands as a refined, collectible artistic statement—a striking tribute to both nature and the tradition of plush artistry.

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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