Of American manufacture, circa 1875, this authentic children’s platform rocking horse “glider” is hand carved of hard wood, and has a hand crafted leather saddle to accommodate a sitting child rocking back and forth by another person pushing the horse by hand, or pulling on the rope tail, or by the child pushing his feet and applying pressure to the horizontal supports and foot rests. Notice the wear on the foot rest indicating an abundance of mounts and dismounts, along with general wear to the horse where applicable, indicating original finish and authenticity. The motion is made possible by the reverse “C”, wooden, semi-circular bar, which creates enough tension to suspend the wooden horse and move it easily back and forth via the attached metal support clasps and wooden stanchions. The condition is very good and operable; functions very well (see video on request; it is in original paint and condition albeit a little bit of old brown house paint is just behind the saddle on one side (see image). The wooden supports are in original red paint and there is an ever so slight semblance of stenciling apparent which further attests to the age and originality.
This is an absolutely charming piece and a wonderful example of Americana, a must have for the collector of children’s items, teddy bears and doll collectors, or for those just wanting a representative article of American folk art.
Note: The Steiff teddy bear is not included and is only there to show scale and proportion.
Dimensions: 35″ long x 14 1/4″ wide x 27″ high
Note: After 40 plus years of dealing and collecting toys, I am justly qualified to guarantee and present the authenticity of antique and vintage toys and children’s playthings; important considering the fakes and reproductions in the marketplace