I just adore these vintage Deans Toys - I have four of them offered up for sale and for sure I will be sad to see them go!
These toys are usually fully marked on the base, as photographed. They say that they are Deans Rag Knockaround Toys. This one has slender paws so sadly there was not enough room for the large lozenge to be printed on them - and only the words British Made Regd appears on this one.
These printed toys were originally introduced in the early 1900s. They were made of cut-and-sew panels (introduced by the Dean's Rag Book Company). The printed design would then be cut out at home and the pieces sewn together and then stuffed. They were marketed as "wear ever - tear never". They featured hygenic, bright colourfast colours and washable designs. The cotton material was nice and thick which allowed children to handle them roughly - and this resulted in their brand name - knockabout toys.
Mr Teddy here dates to around the 1940s. His name "Teddy" is printed above his ribbon on the back of his neck. He is absolutely pristine condition and looks almost as it he were made yesterday. I have taken lots of images for your inspection. He is about 13 inches tall and is 5 inches across. His colouring is not as dynamic as on my other ones. He is printed on both sides, as photographed. The little orange ribbon is stitched onto the bear and is original to the toy.
It is quite amazing how he has survived so long - he looks like he has been packed away for over 50 years and he is a certainly a most interesting mid-century toy. These rag book toys are much sought after and this, and the exceptional clean condition of Mr Teddy, is reflected in my asking price.
He will be sent to you with Royal Mail Tracked, Small Parcel. This will be applied to your order at the checkout.