Steiff – The Four Missing Bears 1908 Replica – 2005 to 2008

Maker: Steiff
EAN: 408540 (green), 406751 (yellow), 408557 (pink) & 408564 (black)
Edition: Limited in production to 3000 of each bear
Price: £650 Set of 4 Bears (Free Postage In The UK)
Material: Mohair
Size: 35 cm
Care: Surface Washable
Condition: Fine condition. These bears do not have their certificates, but do have their chest labels. Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Made in Germany, 2005 to 2008.

The Four Missing Bears: A Brief Description

The Steiff “Four Missing Bears” 1908 Replica is a remarkable limited edition set of teddy bears, produced between 2005 and 2008 to celebrate and honour one of the most fascinating chapters in Steiff history. Each bear in the series measures 35 cm in height, is made from the finest mohair, and is equipped with a traditional growler voice box, faithfully replicating the charm of early twentieth-century Steiff craftsmanship.

The story of the “missing bears” originates in 1908, when Steiff created a handful of teddy bears in unusually vibrant colours for presentation at the Leipzig Toy Fair. These bears – in black, yellow, green, and pink – were pioneering for their time, breaking away from the naturalistic shades of blond and brown. Yet the colourful quartet mysteriously disappeared after the fair, becoming something of a legend among Steiff enthusiasts. For decades, no surviving examples were known to exist, leaving only archival references to suggest their creation.

Materials and Craftsmanship

To pay homage to these elusive prototypes, Steiff released this exquisite replica set almost a century later. Each of the four bears is individually crafted to mirror the style and proportions of the 1908 designs. The result is a quartet of bears crafted with the same care and precision that has defined Steiff for generations. Each bear is covered in mohair of a rich and saturated hue, from the dramatic depth of the black bear to the radiant brightness of the yellow, the fresh vibrancy of the green and the soft delicacy of the pink. Their bodies are filled with traditional wood-wool, giving them the firm and weighty feel of early Steiff toys, while their jointed heads, arms and legs allow them to be posed in the classic manner. Within each bear is a mechanical growler, which produces the nostalgic sound so evocative of Steiff’s earliest teddy bears. The faces are completed with glass eyes, full of character and warmth, and hand-stitched noses and mouths that reflect the artistry of turn-of-the-century design.

Presentation and Significance

Each bear proudly carries the Steiff “Button in Ear” hallmark, accompanied by the white tag with black writing, denoting its status as a limited edition piece. The edition was restricted worldwide, ensuring that these bears remain highly sought after by discerning collectors. The 35 cm size gives the bears a balanced presence – substantial enough to display as statement pieces, yet intimate enough to handle and admire up close. When grouped together, the quartet creates a striking and historically resonant tableau, embodying both the innovation and the mystery of Steiff’s early years. The Steiff “Four Missing Bears” 1908 Replica set is more than a collection of teddy bears – it is a tangible link to a lost moment in Steiff history, brought to life with meticulous attention to detail. With their unusual colours, authentic mohair construction, and traditional growlers, these bears stand as a testament to Steiff’s artistry, imagination, and enduring legacy.

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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