Frankie is an antique pre-war Teddy Bear. I have had no luck identifying the maker of this bear – there are no labels or buttons so I will just describe it as best I can … The fur is matted mohair. Stuffing is firm excelsior or straw stuffing. The pads are linen or cotton weave in a complimentary tan color to the bear. There is no claw stitching or indication that there ever was. The eyes are small – amber and black glass. The body is fully articulated with moveable joints – rotational – head and limbs. Arms and legs are mounted to the body with concealed circular disc joints. The curved arms extend down to the hip and have an unusual hook at the end. The legs are long and straight – stick like – with no boot or foot at the end. Round cup like ears, slight snout. The nose and mouth are hand stitched black yarn the bear has a quizzical downward grin and small triangular shield shaped nose. The stitch pattern extends down the centre of the back – the front of the legs – and is V shaped on the back of the head extending down the left side of the face to the nose. The bear belonged to the grandmother of a friend of mine. She (the grandmother) immigrated to Canada from England well before the war, so, I think the bear is either English or early American. Item: Antique Teddy bear Date: pre war Dimensions: 15 inches in height. Condition : Bear is in good condition. The Fur is matted – duller in colour than originally intended and soiled. Stitching is tight with no splits, rips or repairs. Nose and mouth stitching is tight. Eyes are firmly mounted to the head – scuffed but not chipped. Arms, legs and head rotate freely. A loose cotton thread extends from the top of the left thigh and bottom of left ear. The pads are in good condition with no real wear or tear. Bear is presented as found, with no attempt to either clean or brighten up the fur.

Description