Vintage Teddy Bear Appraisal

Vintage Mohair Teddy Bear

This item is a vintage teddy bear, likely crafted from mohair, given its slightly unruly yet soft-looking texture and characteristic sheen. The bear exhibits an overall golden-brown coloration, consistent with aged mohair. It measures approximately 10-12 inches tall in its seated position, suggesting a total standing height of around 15-18 inches. Notable physical characteristics include round, dark, possibly glass or plastic button eyes, with one eye securely in place and the other visibly missing, leaving a bare patch of stuffing and backing material. The nose is stitched with black thread, appearing in good condition without significant fraying. The mouth area is not distinctly stitched, contributing to a simpler, more classic teddy bear facial expression. The paws and feet are covered with a contrasting lighter brown or tan fabric, possibly corduroy or a similar ribbed textile, which shows a slight difference in texture and wear compared to the main body. The construction appears to be jointed, allowing for articulation of the limbs, although the extent of this articulation (e.g., swivel head, jointed shoulders/hips) cannot be definitively determined from the single image. Visible condition issues include the missing eye, which is the most prominent form of damage. There might be some general surface wear and slight matting of the mohair, consistent with its age and use. There are no obvious tears or repairs visible on the main body. The bear lacks any discernible maker's marks, tags, or signatures in the provided image. Based on its style, particularly the material, button eyes, and general construction, it likely dates from the mid-20th century, possibly the 1940s-1960s. Its unique missing eye adds a degree of character, often appealing to collectors of vintage plush items. The craftsmanship appears to be of good quality, typical of mass-produced yet well-made teddy bears from that era.