The world of antique microscopes is an exciting one that sits at the intersection of science and collecting. Vintage microscopes are attractive to behold, often made of beautiful brass and carrying many beautiful engravings.
They are also interesting to use, as you can examine a tiny world that exists outside of your regular visibility. Moreover, they are also an important piece of science history, as these pieces are living proof of the many scientific advances that microscopes have experienced since their inception.
Follow along as we explore the world of microscopy, the antique and vintage microscopes, the history of these scientific instruments, and our best tips for collecting antique microscopes.
Microscopic Marvels: A Journey Through Scientific History
Early microscopes date back to the 16th century, when two Dutch makers of spectacles developed the first microscope in 1590. They were quite simple in design, using a single lens to magnify small items. In 1667, Robert Hook published the famous book, “Micrographics,” which shares his studies conducted with a microscope. In 1675, Anton van Leeuwenhoek examined insects and was the first to observe bacteria.
Over the centuries, the design of the microscope has become ever more complex. Therefore, the microscope was in invaluable tool in scientific research by the 19th century, with folks such as Ernst Abbe, Richard Zsigmondy, and Frits Xernike all making valuable contributions.
Antique microscopes were often handmade and had ornate engravings. Accordingly, manufacturers usually chose brass for its durability and stunning appearance. Some well-known microscope makers include Carl Zeiss, Ernst Leitz, and Bausch & Lomb.
Antique Microscopes and their Design
Obviously, antique microscopes came in many different styles, but these four were the most common:
Simple Microscope: This early microscope device featured a single lens that was mounted on a stand.
Compound Microscope: The most commonly used instrument in the present day, compound microscopes use two or more lenses to magnify objects.
Stereoscopic Microscope: Ideal for looking at small objects such as minerals, stereoscopic microscopes utilize two optical paths to create a 3D image of the object they observe.
Polarizing Microscope: This type of microscope utilizes polarized light to examine different objects. They are commonly used in geology and materials science.
Microscope Manufacturers: The Companies that Produced Them
There were two prominent makers of antique microscopes that were renown for their work. Learn more about each of these companies!
Zeiss Microscopes
Launched in 1847, the company, run by German lens crafter Carl Zeiss, started out building single lens microscopes. In 1857, they began building compound microscopes, made of brass and with black bases.
Later, designs utilized a draw-tube coarse focus and a fine focus controlled by a knob. Likewise, an even greater improvement was the addition of a rack and pinion coarse focus and a graduated wheel fine focus.
Zeiss microscopes were considered some of the best of their day.
Bausch and Lomb Microscopes
Jacob Bausch and Henry Lomb came to the United States from Germany in the mid 1800s, and they started out producing eyeglasses. Pretty soon, they were producing single lens microscopes, and then compound microscopes by 1974.
Methods used to focus the microscope included a crew thread focus control on the nose of the barrel, followed by a draw tube and a rack and pinion system.
These were typically made of brass. They designed the first well-known binocular microscope in 1883.
How to Identify Antique Microscopes
If you want to get started collecting antique or vintage microscopes, it’s important to know how to get started. Here are a few tips for delving into the exciting world of microscopes!
Understanding Basic Microscope Design: Consider taking some time to learn the different kinds of microscopes and their applications, as well as how they are put together.
Learn About Popular Microscope Makers: Well known makers include Carl Zeiss, Ernst Leitz, and Bausch & Lomb. Learn about their history and how they have built microscopes over the years. This will help you to identify their age and origin.
Examine the Microscope for Markings: Engravers often mark antique or vintage microscopes with the maker’s name, model, or serial number, which aids in their identification.
Talk to Experts: Seek out online experts or communities if you are not sure about your microscope. There are plenty of people who know about this area of interest, and their knowledge can help you in your quest.
FAQ:
Why do people collect antique microscopes?
Collectors value antique microscopes for their unique designs and craftsmanship. Craftsmen often construct them from brass and incorporate intricate carvings and stunning details. Also, besides their aesthetic appeal, enthusiasts also value early microscopes as pieces of scientific history. The importance of preserving the past attracts many collectors to this hobby.
How can I start my own antique microscope collection?
Start by browsing the internet or scouring antique scores for pieces to add to your collection! Conduct your own research to learn more about the different models of microscopes that are available and their market value.
You can find this information online or consult with an expert in the field.
From the dawn of time, maps have been a way to help us navigate the world, from the crude early maps found in cave paintings to the GPS devices that we use to navigate in the modern day and age. Antique globes and maps are interesting because they document how our understanding of the world around us has evolved over the years.
From the flat maps of the early days, which gave way to globes which depict our earth as it truly is, maps have a fascinating and storied history. It’s no wonder that so many people – and museums – view them as valuable pieces of history worth preserving and collecting.
Follow along as we explore the history of cartography, a few of the iconic maps that made contributions to our understanding of geography, how experts preserve and care for maps to ensure their survival, how to find antique maps for your collection, and much more!
Mapping Through the Ages: The History of Cartography
Since prehistoric times, maps have been made to help explain the lay of the land. From the maps of earlier cultures, drawn on bones or in caves, to the digital GPS systems of today, maps have come a long way since their inception. Some of the earliest crude maps have turned out to be maps of hunting areas, routes, or even the stars! Early maps don’t account for the shape of the earth, the way that later maps and globes do, because at the time the earth being round wasn’t common knowledge.
The importance of cartography, or map-making, as a science came about in the days of ancient Greece. Some folks that had a huge influence in early cartography and geography were Ptolemy, Herodotus, Anaximader, and Eratosthenes. The first person to create a map of the known world was Anaximander. Pythagoras of Samos hypothesized about a spherical earth, with a central fire at it’s core.
The Roman Empire utilized maps for military and administrative purposes. This was important to them as they sought to maintain control of their empire, and needed to determine their boundaries.
During the Middle Ages, mapmaking traditions were expanded upon by Muslim scholars. They typically followed Ptolemy’s map making method, but they also incorporated their own knowledge of the world.
Cartographers became influential with the introduction of the printing press. As people began to colonize new areas of the world, the need for accurate maps was at the forefront. A huge advance in cartography arrived in 1569, when Mercator’s first maps were published. These were later improved upon by Abraham Ortelius in 1570.
Modern mapmaking after the industrial revolution evolved as the concept of traveling for pleasure began to grow. Maps became portable and more practical, as well as more accurate. As railroads spread throughout the world, cartographs made an effort to include these in their map making.
Today, technology has had a huge impact on map making. Modern maps are digital, and GPS tools make them easy to keep updated. As technology continues to advance, it makes one wonder where mapmaking will go next! Despite the fact the paper maps are practically extinct, we believe that an old map will always hold value as a piece of history.
Navigating the World: A Beginner’s Guide to Antique Globe & Map Collecting
Get started on your journey into antique globe and map collecting with this beginner’s guide! Here are some tips and tricks that every map collector should be aware of.
Understand the Terminology
Antique and rare maps use many specialized terms, and familiarizing yourself with them will help you understand the maps better. Terms include the Compass Rose, the Plate Mark, the Signature, and the Centerfold.
Understand Various Printing Methods
Printed maps have been around since the invention of the printing press in 1439. Over the years, there were three main printing methods used to produce maps. The first was relief printing, where all the areas without ink were cut away, creating a raised impression. The intaglio method is the opposite of the relief method, etching the design into the paper so that the places without ink are raised. The planographic method, also called lithography, is where an images is drawn onto limestone or metal with a wax crayon. The surface is then made wet and inked, leading to a flat surface.
Understand How Paper Has Changed
Learning the history of paper can help you identify any reproductions or facsimiles. Handmade laid paper was the paper of choice until the late 18th century. This paper was made using a wire screen mold, which often contained a watermark to identify the paper mill. On this paper you will see chain lines that are characteristic of laid paper. You’ll also see long fibers, which make the paper harder to tear, as well as a textured and uneven surface.
Wove paper was invented in the 18th century, and this used a fine wire mesh mold which made for a smoother surface. The invention of the papermaking machine came about in 1807, and produced a demand for less expensive paper. This led to wood pulp paper, which was cheaper to produce and created an even smoother surface. This unfortunately was easier to tear, which means that maps from this time period were quite fragile, and the existing ones are often in poor condition.
Condition is Important
The condition of an antique maps will have a huge impact on it’s value, so take this into consideration when growing your collection. Often, a map’s condition can be improved upon with professional restoration, which we discuss in further detail later in this blog post.
Known How to Determine Authenticity
An antique map collector should watch out for restrikes, reproductions, and forgeries. A restrike is a much later edition of a map that was created from the original plate, and is usually on different paper and will have a notation indicating a restrike. A reproduction is made for decorative purposes and printed on modern paper. A forgery is a fake map that is being passed off as genuine. Be sure to examine your maps carefully, comparing them with the original and using a magnifying glass to examine details.
Take Care of Your Collection
If you are a collector of antique or rare maps, you are now in charge of protecting a small portion of history. Be sure to take good care of the maps in your possession, storing them properly, caring for them well, and keeping them out of direct sunlight to ensure they are protected for posterity.
Masterpieces of Exploration: Iconic Antique Globes and Maps
Some of the earliest maps are etched permanently in history for the unique role that they have played in helping to understand the earth’s geographical features. Follow along as we discover a handful of historic maps that have influenced antique cartography.
Ptolemy Map
This ancient map is important for it’s part in Roman expansion. Around 150 AD, Ptolemy wrote his Geographica, which contains a system of latitude and longitude and a unique way of describing locations on earth. Although his original maps have been lost, cartographers were able to recreate other maps from his work from how descriptive he was.
Tabula Rogeriana
Al Idrisi drew this ancient map of the world along with well-researched text that discusses geography in depth, including ethic groups, socioeconomic features, and more. The maps describe the earth as being spherical, and they break up the earth into 70 rectangular pieces.
Hereford Mappa Mundi
“Mappa mundi” is a term used to describe medieval European maps of the world. The Hereford Mappa Mundi is the largest medieval map that exists, and it is also drawn and colored meticulously. The map is a circle, with Jerusalem at it’s center and the Garden of Eden near the top.
Fra Mauro Map
Created by monk Fra Mauro around 1450 AD, this is one of the best pieces of cartography from medieval times. It’s painted on vellum, which is stretched over a wooden frame. The map depicts the known world, including Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Mercator Map
This map is renown for being the first world map to try to capture the roundness of the earth on a flat surface. The resulting map was a great tool for navigating the oceans and seas. It allowed ships to chart a course more easily.
1602 Ricci Map
This map was also called the “Impossible Black Tulip.” It was created by Matteo Ricci, a Jesuit priest, in 1602. This map depicts China as the center of the world, and is the oldest surviving map in Chinese that shows the Americas.
Discovering Hidden Treasures: Where to Find Antique Maps and Globes
Wondering where you can go about finding antique maps or globes to add to your collection? A good start in your map hunting quest is to look for them in auction houses.
You can find some incredible antique maps online on eBay or at Sotheby’s auction house, where their map specialists sell maps and atlases in online auctions, as well as in-person auctions in London, New York, and Paris.
Their auctions include maps by world class cartographers, including Mercator, Blaeu, Ortelius, Visscher, Verbiest, Speed, Mauro, Gastaldi, Huang, de Jode, and Munster.
There are also specialized websites that sell antique and vintage maps. Check out UniqueMaps.com or RareMaps.com for some special finds.
Behind the Parchment: Unveiling the Craftsmanship of Antique Maps
Beyond being tools for navigating, antique maps are also quite beautiful, with considerable thought being poured out into their design. It is for this reason that many people collect and display antique maps. They are admirable for their utility, their craftsmanship, and their unique beauty.
Past: Antique Globe and Map Conservation Techniques
Antique maps and globes are typically quite fragile, which means that preserving them for posterity requires careful, and some expert, care. Most pieces are on paper, which is a vulnerable material. Paper maps face a variety of hazards that could cause damage, including UV rays of the sun, high humidity, high temperatures, atmospheric particles, acidic framing materials, fire or water damage, and decay.
Expert conservationists will restore pieces by gently washing them in a variety of solutions tailored to the specific needs of that document. This can help to remove discoloration and restore the piece to it’s original glory.
Conservationists also frame pieces in conservation-grade materials, which are designed to protect the piece from any further damage.
The Value in Time: Appraising and Investing in Antique Maps and Globes
If you are looking to uncover the value of your old maps or globes, you may want to take them to an expert near you for an appraisal. However, there are some online alternatives that should help you discover what your particular map is worth.
Take a look at OldMaps.com, which provides a database of maps, globes, and atlases and their respective values in their map price guide. You can also browse online auction websites to get an idea of what similar maps are selling for.
The Globe-Trotter’s Delight: Antique Globes and Maps as Home Décor
If you are a collector of antique maps, you may want to put your unique collection on display in your home. The benefit of displaying these maps is that they will quite literally give your home décor that coveted “traveled” look that is often found in bohemian homes.
As your maps may be fragile, be sure that you are displaying them in a safe way. You can frame your maps behind glass to keep them from dust and dirt. You may want to keep your maps out of direct sunlight, as this can cause fading and decay.
Consider putting aside a special room to display your maps and globes, kind of like a miniature museum. Select a space that doesn’t get too much natural light and display your maps in frames or in glass casing so that they are visible for people to enjoy, and yet still protected.
FAQ:
What are some essential tips for beginners in antique globe and map collecting?
Understand map lingo, learn the history of different printing methods and types of paper, and keep your maps in great condition so that they can be enjoyed for generations to come.
How can I preserve and maintain the condition of my antique maps and globes?
Store your maps carefully, using acid-free materials for framing or storage. If needed, take your map to a professional for restoration or conservation.
Where can I find reputable sources for appraisals and investments in antique maps and globes?
OldMaps.com provides a database of maps, globes, and atlases and their respective values in their map price guide. You can also search on Google for professionals near you.
Today, folks are most likely to tune into a radio station on their car radios to catch some music or the weather report on their commute to work. FM radios are a great way to listen to the latest music. However, those who are old enough to remember the Golden Age of radio may recall being glued to the spot next to their antique family radio, eagerly listening to the next chapter of whatever saga they were following.
Antique radio entertainment has had both a huge impact on pop culture, even influencing the television shows which have succeeded them in popularity. Not only that, but antique radios themselves are considered highly collectible, with their unique and varied designs being a prize for any collector’s treasure trove.
Follow along with us as we explore the antique radio world, the history of the radio itself, as well as the exciting forms of entertainment that it brought to the masses.
Antique Radio Collecting: Unearthing Designs the Past
While the original radio cabinet design was rather uninteresting – a plain piece of wooden furniture or a plastic box – later radios had unique and glamorous designs that are prized by radio collectors today. Antique and vintage radios come in a plethora of shapes, sizes, colors, and materials.
Follow along as we explore the evolution of radio design through the years, from the crude designs of the late 1800s to the sleek digital radios that are available today.
Early Radios (Late 1800s – Early 1990s)
These radios did not have a standardized design, and often featured exposed parts. They often had wooden cabinets and appeared very utilitarian.
Art Deco Era (1920s – 1930s)
Radios became more widespread in their use, and the design elements took on the art deco style of the time. Radios had sleek lines, geometric shapes, and were made of fine materials.
Post-War Era (1940s – 1950s)
Radios became even more widespread after World War II. Portable radios became available, and designs were very functional, with plastic casings and simple controls.
Modern Era (1960s to 1990s)
Transistor radios were introduced in the 1960s, and for the next few decades, radio design mimicked contemporary design trends of their respective decades.
Digital Era (Late 1990s – 2000s)
During this time period, radio went digital! The dials were replaced with digital displays, and radios typically incorporated CD players or cassette decks.
Contemporary Radios (2010s – Present)
Modern radios maintain their digital technology, and popular designs include touchscreens and super compact radios.
Retro and Vintage Revival
As there is an increased interest in vintage designs, many radio manufacturers are creating radios that mimic the designs of the past yet still have modern technology. These classic designs are popular with collectors!
Rediscovering Entertainment History through Antique Radio Programs
There is a time period in history known as the “Golden Age of Radio”, or the old-time radio (OTR) era. This is a time period (1920s – 1950s) where radio was the main source of electronic home entertainment in the United States. Although in the grand scheme of things it was a very short period of time, this period nonetheless had a huge impact on the entertainment industry.
In 1947, 82% of Americans listened to the radio, and they had some incredible shows to tune into. Families would gather around their radio, eagerly listening to each new chapter of their chosen show. There were radio plays, soap operas, quiz shows, talents shows, variety hours, sports, situation comedies, cooking shows, shows for children, and much more!
In the 1950s, television became more popular than radio, and sadly these unique radio programs became a part of history. However, they had an indelible mark on history, and they influenced the television entertainment that we are familiar with today.
An antique radio brings with it a wealth of memories for the older generation, and there are many collectors that have taken an interest in antique radios, preserving and restoring them so that generations to come can understand the experience.
Antique Radio Shows: A Variety of Genres
During the golden age of radio production, there were many that were quite popular with audiences across the United States. Here are some of the most well-known genres that we broadcast in this medium:
Comedy
These comedy programs started out like vaudeville shows, and many of these early comedians learned the art of comedy in vaudeville. Many well-loved radio programs were comedies.
Situation comedy
The situation comedy is comedy in a narrative form, with different stories being told about the same recurring group of characters.
Variety shows
Variety shows combined comedy and music, with a singing host and a guest star every week. Often, comedy sketches would be broadcast among other features.
Anthology shows
These shows featured story lines and casts of characters that changed from week to week. These shows featured the talents of Orson Welles and Norman Corwin.
Police and detective dramas
These shows depicted actual crime stories. The first police drama was Calling All Cars, which was written and directed by William N. Robson.
Westerns
Set in the wild west, this genre included shows such as Death Valley Days, The Lone Ranger, and The Tom Mix Ralston Straight Shooters.
Horror and suspense
This genre of entertainment worked well on radio as the more gruesome scenes were merely suggested rather than seen on screen. This includes shows such as The Witch’s Tale and Lights Out.
Science fiction
Science fiction shows such as Buck Rogers in the 25th Century, Flash Gordon, and Dimension X were introduced as popular shows for young people, but as the years went on, more mature shows emerged.
Soap operas
Did you know that soap operas got their name from detergent companies? This genre featured 15-minute serial dramas that aired on weekdays. The storylines were open-ended, and while one issue may find it’s resolution, a new curveball would follow.
Children’s programming
Popular children’s shows included The Adventures of Helen and Mary, Let’s Pretend, and Uncle Wip.
Sports
In 1921, a boxing match was the first sporting event to be live broadcast on the radio. This was followed by baseball, football, and tennis. Today, sports radio is still popular with listeners.
News
Last but not least, new broadcasts were popular on the radio, with the first broadcast being in 1920. Today, many people still listen to the news in this format.
From Classic Radio Shows to Timeless Collectibles
During the era of radio entertainment, there have been many popular shows on radio stations that ended up shaping entertainment history. Radio production has even had a lingering influence on tv programming. Here are some of the most popular radio shows from different time periods:
“The War of the Worlds” (1983)
This adaptation of an H.G. Wells’ novel incited quite the reaction when it was first broadcast. Panicked listener thought this was a real new outlet reporting an alien invasion.
“The Lone Ranger” (1933-1954)
This was a western radio series that followed the Lone Ranger and his trusty Native American friend, Tonto.
“The Jack Benny Program” (1932-1955)
Jack was a well-loved comedian whose variety show brought joy and humor to audiences everywhere.
“Fibber McGee and Molly” (1935-1959)
This comedy show featured the antics of a married couple and their friends. This show featured a famous sound effect of a cluttered closet.
“Suspense” (1942-1962)
This suspenseful radio program rendered tales of mystery, crime, and supernatural occurrences.
“The Mercury Theatre on the Air” (1938)
This series was produced by Orson Welles and his Mercury Theatre group, which included adaptations of classic literature.
“The Shadow” (1937-1954)
Lamont Cranston, aka The Shadow, fought crime with his power of hypnosis in this mystery thriller.
“The Great Gildersleeve” (1941-1957)
This sitcom featured main character Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, a character that was well-loved and popular on American radio.
“Dragnet” (1949-1957)
This police drama portrayed law enforcement and police work in a very realistic way, and was created by Jack Webb.
“Gunsmoke” (1952-1961)
This long-running radio Western eventually made it onto the silver screen.
“The Adventures of Superman” (1940-1951)
This show brought the character of Superman onto the radio, and is considered a classic in the franchise.
“The Jack Armstrong, the All-American Boy” (193301951)
This was an adventure show that followed the lead character as he traversed the globe solving mysteries.
Reviving Nostalgia: The Art of Antique Radio Restoration
As antique radios have become an exciting collectible item, restoring them to working condition while preserving the integrity of the original design has practically become an art work. Here are some important steps in the process of radio restoration:
Get the schematic: A schematic is a diagram of an antique radio which explains all of the parts and how they are connected. Having this item will help you in the process of fixing the radio.
Start by cleaning the parts: You’ll want to carefully and properly clean the chassis, the tubes, and the controls and switches.
Test out the tubes: Clean and test the tubes one at a time to determine which, if any, are faulty.
Test other components: Test other parts to see which need replacing, and then order any new parts that are needed.
Restoring an antique radio is a time-consuming and challenging task. If you’re an amateur, you can find detailed radio repair instructions here. If you aren’t sure what you are doing, you may want to invest in professional restoration.
FAQ:
Why should I consider antique radio collecting as a hobby?
Radios come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and many of them have a cool retro classic look. Restored radios that are in working order are a cool collectible, as they serve the purpose of allowing you to listen to the radio while providing a unique, retro look.
What are some key factors to consider when restoring antique radios?
If you aren’t an expert at restoration, we recommend you have yours professionally restored. Search online to find a pro that lives near you.
Teddy bears provide timeless comfort to both children and adults alike! These cute companions have been around for a long time, and teddy bears both new and old are still bringing delight to people of all ages. These cuddly creatures have a storied past, and in today’s world they are a popular collectible item.
Collectors enjoy amassing both new and antique bears from a variety of known teddy bear brands. Join us as we discover the unique world of teddy bears, exploring popular teddy bear museums, discovering the top brands of vintage bears, and uncovering our best tips for collecting these classic furry friends.
Teddy Bear Collecting: Tips and Tricks
Are you interested in starting a collecting of loveable and adorable teddy bear? Here are some considerations to help you kickstart your collection!
Decide what bears to collect
The first step in becoming a teddy bear collector is determining the scope of your collection. How will you decide which bears to collect? You can collect bears by manufacture, by age, for sentimental reasons, or you can focus on special editions.
Know the manufacturer
It’s important to know who made the bears that you are collecting. Some popular teddy bear brands include Clemens Spieltiere, Teddy Hermann, Deans, Gund, Boyd’s, and Steiff, among others.
Determine the age of the bear
The age of your bear can be determined by the materials used, the type of stuffing, and the patterns from which the bear was made. Occasionally, older bears generally have a lot of wear and tear as they were originally a child’s plaything. Still, however, antique bears are sought after collectibles.
Look out for special editions
Brands such as Steiff and Gund have released special edition teddy bears, which are valuable collectible items.
Look out for dressed bears
Some brands of bears are come clothed in miniature outfits. So, you’ll need to consider whether you want to collect bears with or without clothing.
Behind the Glass: Exploring Teddy Bear Museums Worldwide
Do you which that you could take a global tour behind the glass walls of teddy bear museums and explore their treasures? Here are some of the best teddy bear museums in the world that are worth the visit, should you happen to be in the country!
Teddy Bear Museum (Vietnam)
This is one of the biggest bear museums in the world! It includes more than 500 varieties of teddy bears, and they date back to the 18th and 19th centuries.
Teddy Bear Museum (South Korea)
This museum has teddy bears of all kinds! The museum has three different halls and there are many animated teddy bear displays to enjoy.
Dorset Teddy Bear Museum (England)
This museum is open 365 days of the year, and contains over 100 kinds of teddy bears. The museum has existed for around 200 years, and is a great place for families.
Izu Teddy Bear Museum (Japan)
This museum has many English style teddy bears, as well as an animated bear exhibit.
Nasu Teddy Bear Museum (Japan)
The teddy bears in this museum have been curated by 100 teddy bear artists, and teddy bear cultures of different countries are on display.
Preserving Your Teddy Bear Collection: Tips and Tricks
Part of taking care of your collection of beloved bears is cleaning them properly. Here are some tips and tricks for keeping your bears in tip top shape!
Precleaning: Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly and find a clean surface to work on. Lay down a towel or cloth if the surface is uneven in any way.
Dusting and Surface Cleaning: Use a soft brush or a lint roller to gently remove debris. Be gently and follow the direction of the fur.
Spot Cleaning: To spot clean, prepare a solution of water and a drop or two of mild detergent. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the detergent and then gently clean the affected area.
Consider a professional for stubborn stains: If gently cleaning doesn’t remove the stain, consider hiring a professional cleaner, especially for vintage or antique bears.
Teddy Bears in Pop Culture: The Most Iconic Teddy Bears
There are some teddy bears that have had so much influence that they’ve permanently impacted pop culture. From Pooh bear to Teddy Ruxpin, read on as we uncover seven of the most iconic bears of all time.
Winnie the Pooh
Nearly 100 years old, Winne the Pooh is a character created by A.A. Milne in 1926. Pooh lives in the Hundred Acre Woods, is friends with Christopher Robin, and adores honey.
Rupert Bear
Rupert Bear originated with a 1920 comic strip in the Daily Express. The Adventuress of Rupert Bear was a popular children’s TV series in the 1970s.
Care Bears
A trend in the 1980s, Care Bears originally featured 10 bears, but over the years there have been 30 different, colorful bears.
Paddington Bear
Paddington Bear was introduced in 1958 in a book by Michael Bond titled, “A Bear Called Paddington.” This bear wears an iconic red hat and blue coat. A tv series called The Adventures of Paddington was released in recent years.
Chiltern English
This original bear was introduced in 1915, and has become a classic antique bear. Luckily, many of these bears have been repaired by collectors so that they can be enjoyed for generations to come.
SuperTed
SuperTed started out as a series of books and was later adapted into a cartoon featured on Disney channel.
Teddy Ruxpin
Popular in the 1980s, Teddy Ruxpin had a cassette deck in it’s back and moving eyes and mouth.
Teddy Bear History: From Roosevelt to Today’s Treasures
Teddy bears actually originated with a story about President Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt. In a 1902 hunting trip, Teddy’s friends caught a bear cub, which they tied to a tree. Teddy wouldn’t fire at the bear, saying, “Spare the bear! I will not shoot a tethered animal.” Later, this scene was turned into a political cartoon, and store owners in Brooklyn named Morris and Rose Michtom introduced a stuffed bear called “Teddy’s Bear.” The bear was immensely popular, and the Michtoms soon established the Ideal Novelty and Toy Company.
Around this time in Germany, a man named Richard Steiff designed a soft toy bear for his aunt, who was the owner of a toy factory. George Borgfeldt, a wholesaler from the US, discovered this stuffed bear at the Leipzig Toy Fair in 1903. He loved it and order 3,000 of them. Millions of bears sold in the US, Germany, and England by World War I.
Over the years, many makers have produced a wide variety of bears in all sizes and styles, but they got their start in the early 1900s in America and Germany.
FAQ:
What Makes an Antique Teddy Bear Valuable?
An antique teddy bear’s value is determine by it’s manufacturer and it’s condition. You can search online auction sites to determine the value of your particular bear.
How Can I Safeguard My Teddy Bear Collection?
Take care of your bears by cleaning them gently, and consider professional help if your bear is antique or vintage.
