Vintage “Rolly Dolly” Clown Toy by The Schoenhut Toy Company, Germany, circa 1920; capitalizing on the popularity of the circus clown during that time period.
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 (Upon request view video to see toy in action).
Made of paper mache, Albert Schoenhut, founder of Schoenhut Toy Company in 1872, developed these popular toys around 1900 through the 1920’s; the company falling victim to the depression and going out of business in 1935.
The composition nature of their manufacture caused “Rolly Dollys” to deteriorate over time and with harsh play, consequently, few complete untouched examples are extant. This example is completely original with no repairs, no restoration and no repaint or touch up of any kind. It is in completely original paint with some losses to the bottom green “round about” section at the bottom (see image).
The clown is hand painted in several colors; yellow jacket with black buttons and a blue collar; yellow hair, a red cap and green ears. Red lips, blue eyes and black highlights on a white face completes the color scheme (see images).
I have examined with a loop and under black light and can attest to the fact that this is a fine original, better condition example, with most of it’s paint in order.
Dimensions: 4″ high x 2 1/2″ wide x 2 1/2″ 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.