Willem is a more unusual old mohair bear who is a standing bear in the "Dutch Teddy" style which was brought into fashion by Merrythought 1938/39 after Chad Valleys Dutch Dolls of the early 1930's. This styling came back in favour in the 1950's
Willem has no label and I am not sure who is maker is.
He is such a handsome and proud bear and I could not resist rescuing him and bringing him to the BWB Orphanage and get him ready for adoption. Willem opted for a rust coloured hand-knitted waistcoat
Statistics
* Approx Height - 18 “ (46cm).
* Fur - Willem is made from a light golden mohair and faded yellow wool plush dutch trouser legs
* Joints - Unjointed
* Filling - Excelsior (wood wool) and kapok
* Eyes - Original amber and black plastic
* Nose & Mouth - Original stitching
* Paw Pads - Original Rexine foot pads. Willem has hands made of mohair
* Claws - Not applicable
Willem is in a play worn condition.
"These two Dutch characters did not need much attention, a top up of stuffing, especially Willem to support his body. Having been carried around by little hands, the front right arm seams on both of them had opened up. They both received the usual Brush and Fluff and a bubble surface clean.
Not forgetting that Clover’s nose had been incorrectly repaired in the past, I carefully removed the ‘mummy repair’ stitches and restitched the original thread to the original position creating the traditional rabbit styled nose.
I could not resist giving them a little something knitted for their upper body which celebrates their curves. Clover had to have a little pink frilled Blinkley Wood Bears cardi and Willem, a serious proud looking bear was given a Blinkley Wood designed knitted waistcoat."
If you would like any further information, please feel free to ask
Please note as with all antique and vintage teddy bears they do not fall under current Safety guidelines and are for adult collectors only, and not suitable for children under 14 years.
