Vintage hard to find “Rolly Dolly” Musical Toy, of German manufacture, circa 1927; depicts a clown by the nickname of “BoBo”; named after a famous clown during that period —-BoBo Barnett, born 1903 who worked for the Clyde Beatty Circus and was eventually inducted into the International Clown Hall of Fame. This is one of the more rare “Rolly Dolly’s you will come across—I have not seen it before.
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. The fact that there is a mechanism in the weighted base, simulating musical chimes (watch and listen to the attached video), separates this example from non musical Rolly Dollys.
Made of paper mache, makers of these roly poly’s were produced quite prolifically by the same type of German cottage industry that produced Noah’s Arc toys.
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 of “BoBo”” is completely original with no repairs, no restoration and no repaint or touch up of any kind. It is in about 95% original paint with slight losses and separation on his left and right side seam albeit very sturdy and sound (see images).
The clown is hand painted in a multiplicity of colors; red jacket with a yellow vest and black buttons and bow tie; red and black accents to the face and hat on a white face; and printed on the back in black lettering the name “BoBo” (see image).
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.
Wonderful, unique and attractive colorful rare piece to add to your collection of toys and/or folk art
Dimensions: 5 1/2″ high x 3 1/2″ wide x 3 1/4″ 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.