The Merrythought Bear | 18" Heritage Collection Mohair Teddy Bear – Special Edition
The Merrythought Bear – Heritage Collection Special Edition A remarkable recreation of one of the most important bears in Merrythought's history, The Merrythought Bear brings an original 1931 design back to life for a new generation of collectors. Designed by the extraordinarily talented Florence Attwood, The Merrythought Bear was one of her earliest patterns and appeared in Merrythought's inaugural catalogue in 1931. The original was described as being beautifully finished and feather-light, crafted from distinctive 'Old Gold' mohair. Today's recreation faithfully honours those historic details, combining traditional British teddy bear making with the exceptional craftsmanship for which Merrythought has become renowned. Inspired by the Original 1931 Merrythought Bear Lovingly handmade in England, this impressive 18-inch teddy bear is crafted from beautiful wavy golden mohair plush, closely echoing the warm colouring and character of the original. Chestnut-coloured pure wool felt paw pads feature carefully hand-stitched claw detailing, while a traditional scarlet satin bow sits characteristically off-centre around the bear's neck. Fully jointed for a traditional teddy bear feel, The Merrythought Bear also features a classic working growler, producing its distinctive growl when gently tipped. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered to recreate the character and 'unequalled quality' of its 1930s predecessor. The Story of Florence Attwood The story behind this bear is equally remarkable. Florence 'Florrie' Attwood was the talented pattern maker responsible for Merrythought's inaugural collection of soft toys. Having lost her hearing following childhood measles and being unable to speak, Florence attended The Royal School for the Deaf in Manchester, where her remarkable talent for design and dressmaking developed. After working for British toy manufacturer Chad Valley, Florence joined Merrythought and began filling the company's earliest pattern books with her distinctive drawings and ideas. Her creativity and technical expertise helped establish Merrythought's identity, creating characters including the original Merrythought and Magnet teddy bears. Her influence remains an important part of Merrythought's design heritage today. Merrythought Heritage Collection As part of the prestigious Merrythought Heritage Collection, each bear features an authentic replica of the company's earliest 'Hygienic Toys' label. Every Merrythought Bear is also individually numbered as a Special Edition and presented in a pure cotton dust bag accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. A beautiful celebration of Florence Attwood's creativity and Merrythought's history of British teddy bear making, The Merrythought Bear is an exceptional collectable for those who appreciate traditional craftsmanship, heritage and timeless design. Product Details Handmade in England by Merrythought Detailed recreation of the original 1931 Merrythought Bear Designed from Florence Attwood's historic original pattern Part of the Merrythought Heritage Collection Individually numbered Special Edition Approximately 18 inches tall Wavy golden mohair plush Chestnut-coloured pure wool felt paw pads Hand-stitched claw detailing Traditional scarlet satin bow Fully jointed Traditional working growler Replica early Merrythought 'Hygienic Toys' label Filled with recycled polyester (PET) and recycled glass beads Presented in a pure cotton dust bag Includes Certificate of Authenticity Light surface clean only Collector's Item: This product is not a toy and is intended for adult collectors only.