$4,500
Early Steiff Light Gold Mohair Teddy Bear, "Emily's Bear", c. 1905, with black shoe button eyes, underscored "F" button, black embroidered nose, mouth and claws, excelsior stuffing, swivel joints, long arms and feet, and tan felt pads, ht. 13 in., (minimal moth wear, fur needs cleaning), wearing hand-made teal, mustard and red plaid overcoat. Provenance: Originally owned by Emily Nolet, daughter of Albert and Amelia Nolet of 17 Cliff St. in Salem, Massechusetts, and the youngest sister of the seller's father, who was born in 1914. Emily died when she was seven years old, several years before her brother's birth. Her mother made the bear his distinctive coat from a heavy woolen material, and he wears it to this day. After Emily's death, no other sibling was allowed to play with her bear, which became known as "Emily's Bear".
Auctioneer:
Skinner
Date:
2008-08-23
