Vintage Mohair Panda Teddy Bear, c.1940s–1950s

A characterful vintage panda-style teddy bear, measuring approximately 33 cm high. The bear is of traditional fully jointed construction, with a pale mohair body, contrasting black ears, black paw pads, amber and black eyes, and stitched facial detail.

The maker is unknown, as there is no surviving label, button or clear manufacturer’s mark. On the basis of its materials, proportions, facial style and construction, it is best catalogued as a mid-20th-century British or European mohair teddy bear, circa 1940s–1950s.

Panda-style bears were produced by a number of British and European makers during the mid-20th century, and they remain popular with collectors for their distinctive colouring and display appeal. This example has a pleasing expression, compact proportions and a strong decorative presence.

Condition

Fair vintage condition with age-related wear. The mohair is worn overall, with thinning, rubbing and exposed backing in places, particularly to the head and face. The ear stitching is loose and there is visible wear and fraying around the ears. The black fabric to the ears and paw pads shows wear, rubbing and small losses. There are general marks, wear, old stitching and signs of age throughout. The bear is fully jointed.

Maker: Unknown.

Date: Circa 1940s–1950s.

Height: 33 cm.

Material: Mohair plush over textile backing, black fabric ears and paw pads, amber and black eyes, stitched facial detail and internal stuffing.

Construction: Fully jointed teddy bear with swivel head, jointed arms and legs, stitched facial detail and contrasting panda-style black trim.

Why Buy from Hornseys?

For almost fifty years, Hornseys has specialised in sourcing, researching and offering carefully selected works of art, rare books, antiques and collectable objects. Every teddy bear offered for sale is examined individually and catalogued with the same attention to detail that we apply throughout our business.

Expertise and Research

Our descriptions are based on careful first-hand examination and supported by research into labels, materials, construction methods and comparable recorded examples. Where possible, we identify date ranges, model characteristics, original features and any later alterations to provide collectors with accurate and transparent information.

Authenticity and Provenance

Authenticity is fundamental to our approach. We assess each bear for period materials, labels, construction details and condition, clearly noting restorations, replacements or associated items where known. We believe buyers should have confidence that every description reflects the object as it is, not as we would like it to be.

Condition Reporting

Vintage teddy bears inevitably show signs of age and use. We provide honest condition assessments, accompanied by comprehensive photography, so collectors can make informed decisions. Any wear, repairs, losses or alterations are described as accurately as possible.

Carefully Curated Selection

We do not aim to offer large quantities of stock. Instead, we focus on finding examples that possess quality, character, historical interest and visual appeal. Whether a bear is a rare early example or a charming post-war companion, it must meet our standards before being offered for sale.

Established Reputation

Hornseys has been serving collectors and enthusiasts since 1976. From our gallery in Ripon, on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, we have built a reputation for knowledgeable cataloguing, careful packing and personal customer service.

Our Guarantee

Every item is sold with an unconditional guarantee. If you are not entirely satisfied with your purchase, you may return it within fourteen days of receipt for any reason, provided it is returned in the same condition in which it was supplied. We simply ask that you notify us in advance of any return.

Explore Our Bear Collection

From early mohair bears to post-war examples, our Bear collection celebrates important toy manufacturers. Each bear is selected for its authenticity, character and collectability, offering collectors the opportunity to acquire genuine pieces of teddy bear history.

Visit Hornseys to discover our curated selection of bears, fine art, rare books and collectable objects from our Yorkshire Dales gallery, established in 1976.

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