Vintage and rare “Rolly Dolly” Musical Toy by unknown German manufacturer; circa 1895; contemporaneous with early Schoenhut toys, it depicts a “Well Dressed Man With A Bow Tie” (my designated name). Much like the makers of Noah’s Arcs, making these type of toys was a cottage industry in late 19th century Germany.
Today we call these toys “Roly Poly’s”. You knock them over and they always “right” themselves and get upright; probably after the 17th C. Japanese “Daruma Dolls” at some level. I’m not sure of the actual thematic genesis of this character but aside from the excellent condition, what separates this from other similar Roly Poly’s, is the fact that there is a mechanism in the weighted base, simulating musical chimes (watch and listen to the attached video). At 9 3/4″ high, this is considered one of the larger “Rolly Dollys”. I have not seen this example before, so it could be the only one extant.
The composition nature of their manufacture caused “Rolly Dollys” to deteriorate, consequently, few complete untouched examples exist. This example of “The Well Dressed Man With a Bow Tie” is completely original with no repairs, no restoration and no repaint or touch up of any kind.
The rotund body is brightly hand painted in a multiplicity of colors; red and yellow vest with pale blue buttons on a grey background; green vest; blue round base; red hair; detailed blue eyes with black high lights; black hat and oddly enough the ORIGINAL linen bow tie still intact. Black hat lacking some paint but overall there is 96% plus paint all around overall. Highly unusual considering the nature of playing with the toy.
I have examined with a loop and under black light and can attest to the fact that this is one of the better condition examples you will find; with almost all of it’s paint in order; see upon request short video to watch it “roll” and bells chiming away, as it was played with by children.
Wonderful, unique and attractive colorful rare piece to add to your collection of toys and/or folk art
Dimensions: 10″ high x 5″ wide x 5″ deep.
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. This is from my own collection.
See my other listings of vintage toys.