Lovely set of colorful early 1900’s lithographed five block set of alphabet nesting blocks; used as both an educational item as well as toy/game amusement for children in teaching them “numbers”, and the letters of the alphabet, both script upper case and lower case. Animals, children at play, and subject matter on the sides of the blocks typically correspond to letters of the alphabet. The images are chromolithographed on hard pressed cardboard; in very nice detail with bright crisp definition and no fading; excellent all original condition with absolutely no restoration or touch-up paint of any kind. They were made to stack one on top of the other, and conversely, condense or “nest” into one block for storing or to put away until the next time.
These blocks are of American manufacture (probably McLoughlin or Crandell). It is a complete set with just a little bit of wear to the edges here and there; a great piece of American folk art for the discerning collector.
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
Dimensions:
18″ high (when stacked); the base block is 3 1/4″ square x 4″ high
The smallest, or top block, is 1 3/4″ square x 3″ high
The other blocks graduate in size between those two top and bottom blocks.