Steiff – EAN 034534 – Vincent – The White Rabbit – Limited Edition – 2014

Maker: Steiff
Date: 2014
EAN: 034534
Edition: No. 692/1500
Price: £625 (Free Postage In The UK)
Material: 47% Mohair 53% Cotton
Filling: 100% Polyester
Size: 17cm
Care: Surface Washable
Condition: Fine condition in original box.

Item and all certificates made in Germany. Rabbit in fine condition. Certificates including the instructions for the pocket watch in fine condition. Box slightly worn  to the top left-hand side. In very near fine condition overall.

Vincent, The White Rabbit: A Brief Description

Vincent, The White Rabbit, released by Steiff in 2014 as a limited edition piece, is a charming and highly collectible creation inspired by the iconic character from Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Limited to just 1,500 pieces worldwide, this exquisite mohair rabbit embodies Steiff’s renowned craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Standing at 17 cm (approximately 6.5 inches) tall, Vincent is crafted from luxurious white mohair, giving him a soft and elegant appearance. His head and arms are jointed, allowing for graceful poseability. His expressive two-tone eyes, delicately hand-embroidered nose and mouth, and subtle pink airbrushing around the nose highlight the precision and artistry that Steiff is celebrated for.

Vincent is elegantly attired in a tailored blue felt morning coat, complete with finely embroidered cuffs. His outfit is further enhanced by a deep blue waistcoat and a cream lace frill at his neck, evoking the refined attire of the Victorian era. Adding to his whimsical charm, Vincent carries a miniature pocket watch, a delightful nod to the White Rabbit’s time-conscious character in the classic tale.

In celebration of Steiff’s legacy, Vincent is adorned with the signature “Button in Ear” trademark, crafted from gold-plated metal and embossed with an elephant motif to mark the 110th anniversary of this iconic feature. Each Vincent comes with a certificate of authenticity and was originally presented in an elegant Steiff-branded box, ensuring its status as a treasured collector’s item.

Vincent, The White Rabbit, exemplifies Steiff’s dedication to quality, storytelling, and timeless appeal, making it a sought-after piece among collectors and admirers of fine plush artistry.

The White Rabbit in ‘Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland’ by Lewis Carroll: A Brief Description

The White Rabbit is one of the most iconic characters in Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, first published in 1865. He serves as the catalyst for Alice’s journey into Wonderland and plays a pivotal role in setting the whimsical tone of the story.

Appearance and Attire

The White Rabbit is described as a small, anthropomorphic rabbit, notable for his human-like traits and behaviour. His white fur symbolises his innocence and contrasts sharply with his eccentric personality. He is often depicted wearing a formal waistcoat and carrying a pocket watch, a detail that underscores his obsession with time and punctuality. His attire reflects Victorian sensibilities, aligning him with the era in which Carroll wrote the story.

Personality and Characteristics

The White Rabbit is characterised by a nervous and hurried demeanour. His catchphrase, “Oh dear! Oh dear! I shall be too late!” is one of the most memorable lines in the book and highlights his anxiety about time. Despite his initial frantic behaviour, the White Rabbit holds a position of some importance in Wonderland. He is a herald for the Queen of Hearts, indicating that he is more than just a random inhabitant of the strange world Alice enters.

Role in the Narrative

The White Rabbit is the first Wonderland character Alice encounters. She sees him scurrying by while she is sitting by the riverbank, captivated by his peculiar appearance and behaviour. His presence and the sight of him checking his pocket watch prompt Alice to follow him down the rabbit hole, marking the beginning of her fantastical adventure.

Throughout the story, the White Rabbit reappears at key moments, often in a state of panic. He inadvertently leads Alice into new and increasingly bizarre encounters, such as her unintended visit to his house, where she grows uncontrollably large after drinking from a mysterious bottle. His interactions with Alice are brief but impactful, steering the narrative and reinforcing the chaotic and surreal nature of Wonderland.

Symbolism

The White Rabbit can be interpreted as a symbol of curiosity and the unknown. His constant rush and preoccupation with time serve as a reflection of Victorian society’s emphasis on order and punctuality. At the same time, his presence invites Alice—and the reader—to abandon conventional logic and embrace the absurdity of Wonderland.

Legacy

The White Rabbit remains one of the most enduring characters in literary history, instantly recognisable through his iconic phrase, pocket watch, and waistcoat. He has inspired countless adaptations and re-imaginings, solidifying his place as a symbol of curiosity and the adventure of diving into the unknown.

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.