CLUB MAGAZINE The magazine for Steiff Club members – August 2017 EDITORIAL
Dear Steiff friends,
It's 1 July, and despite the As already mentioned earlier, inconsistencies of the weather, the we are also presenting the Steiff Sommer is again attracting Margarete Steiff Edition 2017 to lots of visitors from near and far. you in this issue. This homage The magazine is about to go to to Richard Steiff concludes the press, and it's high time I get on exclusive series that is dedicated with the editorial. I'm not finding to Margarete Steiff's nephews. it so easy at the moment, though, Please refer to pages 14 to 17. Our because my thoughts are revolving portraits of Margarete's nephews entirely around yesterday. To me also come to a close in this issue. personally, the days in the run-up Apart from that, the magazine to 30 June were very special, and contains both historical and the preparations for the journey contemporary topics of interest for through “25 Years of the Steiff you, which I hope you will enjoy Club” awoke so many memories. reading. Incidentally, the next issue Our efforts were rewarded when we will also honour the designers were able to welcome over 600 Club amongst you who took part in the members to the Giengen Schranne! competition in the February issue. I'd like to take this opportunity to You can start looking forward to it thank you all again for coming. I now! hope you all enjoyed looking back at 25 years of the Club’s history. Best wishes, To find out the names of the 10 Club members who were smiled on by Lady Luck in our Journey Through Time competition, please go to page 19. INGE ZINNECKER Steiff Club Manager
Our Stella Teddy bear is a celebration in silver. Her paw pads sparkle with silver sequins and a glittering star pendant adds sparkle around her neck. A wonderful bear for the holidays and beyond.
2 3 A lofty achievement: The 11 Roloplan kite 34 24 Secrets from the archives: Discovered for you!
Commemorating Richard Steiff's vision: The Margarete Steiff Edition 2017 14
Friendship and fun The 2017 Steiff Sommer 18 Special characters made of mohair and soft plush CONTENTS IMPRINT NEWS TOPICS TOPICS COMMUNITY STANDARDS
PUBLISHER: Margarete Steiff GmbH, 6 Shopping 24 A lofty achievement 22 Steiff inside 18 Friendship and fun 30 Service Richard-Steiff-Str. 4, 89537 Giengen an der Brenz, Germany tel.: + 49 (0) 7322 131555, e-mail: [email protected] season ahead The Roloplan kite An interview with The 2017 Steiff Sommer Questions and answers EDITORS: Inge Zinnecker, Rick Emerson New Classic Sunnhild Walzer CONTRIBUTORS: Rebekah Kaufman, Daniel Hentschel items for autumn 34 Secrets from the 40 Venues 46 The Club page PHOTOS: Margarete Steiff GmbH archives (4) 32 Portrait Fairs, Steiff shops and Rewards for recruiting new DESIGN AND PRODUCTION: Nadine Reinhardt / Hess GmbH – Medien, www.hess-medien.de 9 Special items A look at never before Franz and Ernst Steiff more members, application form PRINT: DFM-GMBH / BLUEPRINT, München Customer and seen treasures FREQUENCY OF PUBLICATION: twice a year country exclusives 36 Passions 48 Mail box 49 Calendar www.steiff.com Marvels in miniature Readers' letters Club events Subject to changes. Reprinting and copying, even in part, only with the express permission of the publisher. 14 Homage to By submitting manuscripts you consent to their publication in Richard Steiff 50 Favourite the Club magazine. We must reserve the right to edit or abridge letters or articles. Printed colours may deviate from the original. The Margarete A little inspiration All rights reserved. Steiff Edition 2017 Printed in Germany 07/2017 e – item no. 916106
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Do you have a special If you need a gift for grandmother, aunt, or a cat lover in your life, other beloved relative look no further than who is like a guardian Steiff’s brand new Mitzi angel to you? If so, show kitten. This pretty kitty Although it may be hot outside today, her how much you is 11 cm in size, head Mitzi cat, there’s only a few “tomorrows” until the care with this beautiful jointed, and made from 11 cm, chilly holiday gift-giving season arrives. pendant Raphael Teddy soft brown plush. She item no. 031809. This is the only Club magazine you’ll bear this holiday season. comes to life with brown receive before then, so why not start your He is 11 cm tall, jointed at body stripes, green shopping now and avoid the holiday the arms and head, and and black slit pupil rush? We present a collection of items made from pale ice-blue eyes, and a pink that make the perfect gifts for anyone on mohair. As a finishing nose and mouth. your list. touch, Raphael Teddy It’s impossible bear wears a pair of to resist her Pendant Raphael distinctive, white angel adorable Teddy bear, 11 cm, wings. An elegant and expression and item no. 039553. meaningful gift certain to lifelike pose. make anyone smile!
Shopping Season...
Your niece keeps asking for a pet dog. Your best friend Help make her dreams Your sister has deserves a special come true this holiday always loved dogs, holiday gift. Show her Chilly season with this even as a child. So she how much her friendship Chihuahua, absolutely precious would be certain to means to you with this 16 cm, and very lifelike Chilly truly love Steiff’s new irresistible Teddy item no. 045028. Chihuahua! Chilly is Waldo dachshund as a bear and Christmas 16 cm tall, standing, meaningful Christmas tree pair. Nic Teddy unjointed, and made gift this year! Waldo is is 11 cm tall, five from soft tan and white standing on all fours, way jointed, and plush. Her pink ribbon unjointed, and made from made from the finest is a perfect complement soft tan and brown plush. cinnamon coloured to her oversized brown And who can resist his mohair. He wears a and black pupil eyes and pert tail, black button charming red hat and puppy-like appearance. eyes, and endearing carries a felt embroidered A charming gift certain to smile? And at only 13 cm Christmas tree. She will Nic Teddy bear with raise your status to “most in size, he’d be a perfect Waldo dachshund, love this holiday treasure Christmas tree, 11 cm, favourite” aunt or uncle. stocking stuffer, too! 13 cm, item no. 036057. all year long! item no. 026782.
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Your brother was always there for you. Special items Now let him know how much you appreciate his friendship and loyalty over all these years with this handsome mohair Teddy bear in a fine red Christmas stocking. The EUROPE red-brown bear is 15 cm OBELIX tall, fully jointed, and sits within a festive red Determined to make Asterix an anti-hero flying in the face of the established order of the world of comic OBELIX, stocking highlighted books, René Goscinny certainly did not want to give his main character a sidekick who would play the classic item no. 674457, with white trim and role of stooge. But Albert Uderzo, somewhat frustrated at not having made Asterix a beefy Gaul like he 46 cm, limited embroidered stars. He dreamed, could not resist placing at his side a big strong warrior, more akin to the impressive edition of is a lovely gift certain Teddy bear with muscle-bound characters he already excelled at drawing. 750 pieces, to bring joy for many Christmas stocking, Although he had only a minor role in the first adventure, RRP € 399. holiday seasons to come. 15 cm, item no. 026751. Obelix quickly became an essential character that his authors developed as they went along. He is actually the readers’ favourite hero: all opinion polls place Obelix at the top of the list of favourite village characters. In the adventures penned by René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo, we find him by turns easily offended, sensitive, and definitely a glutton. An overgrown child who grew up too quickly and who is not ...ahead yet aware of his own strength. In his defence, it must be said that not everyone falls in a cauldron of magic potion when he’s a little boy! Following Dogmatix (2015) and Asterix (2016), and at almost the same time as the new Asterix volume no. 37, autumn 2017 Mini Teddy bear So how do you say sees the arrival of Obelix in a strictly limited collectors' version of in sock, 8 cm, “happy holidays” to your only 750 items. He is made of high-quality mohair, has a turning item no. 026768 favourite colleague at head, and completes the trio of the best-known figures from the (white bear), work? These miniature globally successful comic series. Despite his impressive height of item no. 026775 Teddy bears in holiday 46 cm – which makes him the perfect companion for Asterix – and (red-brown bear). socks would be a perfect weighing more than 1½ kg, he is extremely nimble and always ready way to spread Christmas to go hunting wild boar with his friends. As an exclusive European cheer! The bears are limited edition, Obelix is available to order exclusively through made from either white retailers in Europe (with the exception of Germany, the UK and or red-brown mohair, Ireland). are fully jointed, and stand 8 cm tall. They call Asterix® Obelix® / ©2017 Les Editions Albert René / Goscinny - Uderzo a green, white, and red knit Christmas sock their home. A small treat sure to make a mighty big impression!
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GERMANY GERMANY BILLY GOAT HENNES VIII. SNOOPY AND SNOOPY WITH WOODSTOCK
Proudly loyal to Cologne’s “FC Kölle” football club – the life-sized billy goat Something for Snoopy fans to look forward to: Steiff has created two very “Hennes VIII” by Steiff. special versions in co-operation with the Wehrheim Sammlerkontor that will Margarete Steiff GmbH and the Bundesliga club 1. FC Köln present a 100 cm tall be available from late summer and autumn. The 10 cm miniature Snoopy is plush version of the Bundesliga's best-known mascot. The current “Hennes” is the made of the finest Trevira velvet, and will be available in a limited edition of eighth generation to support the FC Köln everywhere – at championships, cup wins, only 750 pieces worldwide. These items will be delivered in a decorative box relegations and promotions. “Hennes VIII” is limited to just 248 items, and now for with a certificate. Billy goat the first time FC fans can welcome their own life-sized version of the mascot to their Snoopy with Woodstock is made from Hennes VIII, home. Like all Steiff products, every single one has been made by hand with the soft-and-snuggly plush, stands 29 cm tall item no. 674372, greatest possible care from more than 30 separate pattern pieces. and is not limited – a treasure for all ages! 100 cm, Airbrush details give Hennes his very special look. After quality checks, the Both items can be ordered exclusively limited edition white ear tag with the continuous limited edition number and the gold “Button at www.sammlerkontor.de. (Supplies Snoopy with Woodstock, 29 cm, of 248 pieces. in Ear” are attached, both of which confirm the quality and exclusivity of the of the limited version while stocks last.) item no. 658204, RRP € 74.90. Steiff animal. “Hennes VIII” is available for purchase exclusively © Peanuts through the 1. FC Köln. There is a historical background for Snoopy, 10 cm, item no. 658150, the price of this high-quality item: The recommended retail price limited edition of 750 pieces, for Hennes VIII is 1,948 euros – in memory of the year the club RRP € 89.90. was founded. The limited edition of 248 items is a reference to 24 August 1950, the first day Hennes was “on duty”, and also to February 1948, the year and month the 1. FC Köln was founded. GOOD TO KNOW Steiff's Sales Director Stephan Dörfler on this co-operation: “The idea of developing Hennes, Germany's most famous Approximate quantity of time-limited items 2016 team mascot, in a life-sized version of a Steiff animal was first 421389 Club edition “Maple” 1,200 pieces considered at the end of 2014. Bringing together a traditional 421365 Event Teddy bear “Mady” 1,360 pieces club and a traditional company is really something special. The result is a fabulous product that will undoubtedly be welcomed in WHAT LUCK! lots of homes, companies and clubs.” 25th anniversary Billy goat “Hennes VIII” by Steiff was first All Club members who ordered the 2017 Club edition before On 1 September 2016, Petra Huber celebrated presented on 4 February 2017 at the Bundesliga 31 January were entered in a prize draw. No. 25 of the Club 25 years of working at Margarete Steiff GmbH. match between 1. FC Köln and VFL Wolfsburg at edition and the Event Teddy bear for 2017 went to Ulrike Eiding Ms Huber has worked at the Steiff Club for the Rheinenergie Stadium. and Sandra Fötsch. Our warmest congratulations! 12 years, and is the contact for any matters that Club members wish to raise. The photo with We received countless submissions to our Designer competition Steiff managing director Daniel Barth was taken in the February issue. Many thanks to all who participated. at a celebration in November 2016. Order through the Fanshop of the 1. FC Köln at www.fc-fanshop.de The results will be published in the next edition of the Club magazine (February 2018). 10 11 NEWS NEWS
Nolde's goat
An homage to Emil Nolde.
UK / USA Steiff is presenting a special item to mark the 150th anniversary of his birth. DISNEY POOH BEAR 50TH ANNIVERSARY “Still Life (with Striped Goat)” is a key painting in Nolde's group of still lifes. Its significant artistic quality is typical of Nolde's feeling for colour and his In celebration of 50 years of the “contemporary” Disney version of Winnie the creative power. The choice of motif would at first appear to be somewhat out Pooh, we are pleased to present our first-ever interpretation of the modernized of the ordinary, almost esoteric, since Nolde is known character. This is the first time that Steiff has made this version of the beloved primarily as the creator of landscape paintings and “Silly Old Bear.” Made of yellow mohair and five way jointed, our 1966-look Pooh biblical histories. wears the trademark red shirt popularized in the Disney films and television programmes. In fact, it was Walt Disney himself who decided to bring Pooh into the Disney fold. In the early 1960s, he was able to acquire the rights to the A.A. Milne character. Under Disney’s direct supervision, Pooh’s design was “modernized” for his In fact, though, this work originates from a core area of first screen appearance in “Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree”, Nolde's art. Between 1911 and 1929, Nolde created more than Disney Pooh Bear a 1966 theatrical short subject. Pooh’s new “look” in this film one hundred oil paintings of masks, statuettes, textiles and other 50th anniversary, would become the definitive version of the character for a new decorative items. In his still lifes with statuettes, he developed an item no. 683213, generation of fans – those born from the 1960s through today. intercultural synthesis that is full of vitality, humour and deeper 42 cm, Celebrate the golden anniversary of the “modern” interpretation meaning. He had a particular predilection for combining the limited edition of of the character beloved by all – no Pooh, Steiff, or Disney disparate, not to say the dissonant. “Still Life (with Striped Goat)”, 500 pieces. collection is complete without it! which unites cultic elements of Latin America with the knick- knacks of Europe on the artist's studio table, is a prime example of © Disney these contrasting productions. Nolde's painting reproduces the Mexican bronze in a warm yellow that radiates plasticity, UK / USA contrasting markedly with the two-dimensionality of the goat DISNEY PIGLET ORNAMENT in a cool white and bluish green. However, Nolde also creates a connection: The animal's head harmoniously intersects the Loyal, generous, kind, and even occasionally brave, Piglet is Winnie the Pooh’s round shape of the sun, and its green-blue stripes are echoed in best friend and confidant. He lives in a beech tree in the Hundred Acre Wood and the shaded areas of the bronze head. In its formal conciseness is described as a “Very Small Animal”. and colourfulness, this painting is undeniably one of Nolde's most Disney Piglet Our version of this lovable character is therefore appropriately diminutive – just outstanding still lifes. ornament, the right size to hang on a Christmas tree, handbag, or backpack. Use his satin ribbon To mark the 150th anniversary of Emil Nolde's item no. 683152, to suspend him wherever you’d like to add a touch of whimsy. birth, Steiff is now producing a limited edition of Nolde's Goat, 9 cm, Piglet is sewn from pale pink mohair (which was custom-dyed to match the exact the Striped Goat. 23 cm, limited edition skin colour specified by Disney animators), has jointed arms, and wears his signature The Striped Goat is made of the finest mohair, item no. 990113, of 1,500 pieces. striped shirt. Whether you are celebrating the holidays, showing your appreciation the painted details making each individual limited edition for the A.A. Milne characters, or you are just a child at heart, there is sure to be a piece unique, fittingly delivered in exclusive gift of 999 pieces, place in your life where Piglet would bring joy. packaging. RRP € 149. © Disney The goat is available to order from: [email protected], tel. +49 (0) 4664 983930, fax +49 (0) 4664 983 9329, Nolde Stiftung Seebüll, Seebüll 31, 25927 Neukirchen, Germany, “Still Life (with Striped Goat)”, painting of 1920 (detail), www.nolde-stiftung.de © Nolde Stiftung Seebüll.
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Commemorating...... Richard Steiff’s vision
A magnificent edition produced...... in celebration of 115 years.
Let’s all take a wonderful time-travel journey back to 1902. It was in that very special year that Richard Steiff forever A special black changed the way that children would play and interact with label, signature their toys. Extremely talented and creative, Richard was “Button in Ear”, determined to invent appealing and lifelike playthings with custom chest movement. After studying how real animals move, experiment- tag, glass nose, ing in his creative studio, and incorporating newly introduced and wooden eyes mohair fabrics into his designs, Richard presented a series are among the of string-jointed toys in 1902. These included bears, monkeys, special features dolls, and dogs. of the latest Margarete Steiff edition. Left and below, beech- A brochure These marvellous and Our 2017 Margarete Steiff wood eyes are created for the revolutionary new toys made edition is “Richard Teddy Bear carefully lathed, 1903 Leipzig their world debut just a few and Monkey PB*,” produced finished, and Spring Toy Fair months later at the Leipzig Spring in an edition size of 115 pieces inspected. The introduces Steiff Toy Fair of 1903. The two most in celebration of this historic bear and monkey Teddy bears to eye-catching items in the collection anniversary. This pair, which set comes with the world. are unquestionably a large bear and comes as a matched number set, a replica of the monkey, both fully string-jointed includes a wonderful re-creation medal Richard and made from dark brown mohair. of the jointed Teddy bear and Steiff’s designs The pair appears to be dancing monkey as they appeared on were awarded at together in the left-hand side of the cover of the company’s 1903 the 1904 World’s the cover photo of the Steiff Leipzig Spring Toy Fair brochure. Fair. brochure created for the event. “No edition commemorating And for good reason – they are Richard Steiff would be complete celebrating the introduction of without his most famous Steiff’s beloved Teddy bears inventions: ‘Bär 55PB' and to the world! 'Aff PB’,” says Dietmar Simon, It has been 115 years since the veteran Steiff designer who Richard Steiff introduced his created the edition. “Bringing early string-jointed toys to the them together as a set helps us world. In honour of this important to show Richard Steiff’s genius anniversary, Steiff is excited to as a designer and inventor.” present the next in the series Like their forefathers from of black label Margarete Steiff the turn of the last century, both editions – an extraordinary edition the bear and the monkey are created exclusively for Steiff Club members. * “P” for “plush”, “B” for “beweglich” or movable.
14 15 CLUB NEWS CLUB NEWS
made of the finest mohair (the The “Richard” Teddy bear features World’s Fair in 1904. As a finishing bear even is made of mohair silk a handmade glass nose in tribute touch, each set is impressively plush), lovingly hand-stuffed with to Steiff’s famous glass factory packaged. excelsior, and are fully jointed. buildings, Richard Steiff’s As a Club member, you (Because string jointing is delicate architectural triumph. The bear are eligible to purchase this and not durable enough to stand and monkey perfectly capture magnificent set by completing the test of time, the set uses the their inventor’s vision of playful, and returning the order form traditional jointing system used by appealing toys with movement. included with this magazine. Lots the company since 1905.) Befitting their special status, both will be drawn to determine which Typical to Steiff’s earliest are branded with Steiff’s highest 115 members have been selected production, both items have tier of distinction – the black and to purchase this very special set. distinctive black “shoe button” silver label Margarete Steiff edition Truly, this would be a jewel in the eyes made from German beech tag and unique signature “Button crown of any collection. wood that has been hand-painted in Ear.” Accompanying each set is in gloss black. a lavishly illustrated booklet about The PB monkey’s oversized felt Richard Steiff, his inventions, hands and feet, lifelike ears, and and the Margarete Steiff edition charming facial expression are pieces. The booklet also includes a all historically accurate as well as reproduction of the medal Richard wonderfully heart-warming. was awarded at the St. Louis
16 17 VENUES
Friendship and fun
A look at this year’s Steiff Sommer celebration.
Steiff’s annual summer festival, held on June 30th through July 2nd this year, the anniversary. The anniversary attracted collectors from near and far. This year’s theme was “Family Funfest” bear issued on occasion of the and the event offered button-in-ear themed friendship and fun for visitors of Steiff Club journey through time every age from start to finish. (see below right) enjoyed great popularity. For those visitors hoping to find a special Steiff treasure to In celebration of the 25th magazines, Club accessories and listened carefully to the reader add to their collection, this event anniversary of the Steiff Club, many other items released in the telling Steiff stories and making did not disappoint. Collectors Club members were invited to the Steiff Club since 1992 were shown. background music with her own swarmed Steiff’s sales tent as “Steiff Club journey through time” Those members who passed instruments at the “Steiff Club the doors opened. Many stayed at the Schranne on Friday. Across through the tour attentively Story lounge”. At the end of the tour in the tent for hours, waiting as a red carpet, past large studio had no problems in the journey all Club members received a goody new merchandise was added to animals and festively decorated through time competition (please bag with gifts, and a photo booth the shelves and bins throughout high round tables, members see the winners below); a “Dalli- provided an opportunity to take the day. Steiff’s museum store and passed through the tour with Klick” game in many cases home a souvenir photo. To conclude factory store - both located right on 28 showcases, in which the annual ensured cheerfulness with the the visit, a sparkling wine stand the Steiff company grounds - were Steiff Club editions as well as Steiff experts, and Club members invited Club members to drink to also popular shopping destinations. The event’s special limited edition, States, the Netherlands, Germany, held at the Schranne in downtown Steiff Sommer Teddy bear duo in and France, offered their country Giengen. This standing-room- red and yellow mohair, proved exclusives and other hard to find only event had about 225 fine irresistible to attendees and many new and vintage rarities in the vintage and antique Steiff rarities happily adopted the charming pair vendor’s tent area. on offer, and took over four hours as a souvenir of this outstanding This year, the auction house to conduct. Top lots at this sale weekend. Specialists Steiff dealers Ladenburger Spielzeugauktion included a 25 cm Teddy Clown bear from the United Kingdom, United hosted the annual Steiff auction, that hammered at 12,000 Euros;
Here are the winners of our “Journey through time contest”: The special 25th Anniversary 1st prize (Teddy bear 1906 replica, item no. 403316): Club bear that was issued to Angelika Hennings-Böger,Berlin mark the Steiff Club “Journey 2nd prize (Dicky Bear 1930 replica (item no. 403309): through Time”. Remaining stocks Michael Lüschper, Essen of the bear (limited to 350 pieces) 3rd prize (Willy Teddy bear, item no. 006623): are available to purchase from the Emily Unruh, Waltrop Steiff Museum. Item no. 421495, 4th-10th prizes (a Bärle necklace, item no. 605178): price € 129 (credit card payments Lotti Amstein, Burgdorf (CH); Peter Enders, Idstein; only). If you are interested, please Alessandro Lifrieri, Nuremberg; Thomas Biedermann, Brunswick; Monika Wegener, Berlin; Irene Hettenbach, e-mail your contact details to: Bönnigheim; Ernst Heß; Syrgenstein [email protected] Congratulations!
18 19 a 40 cm Happy Teddy bear that hammered at 11,500 Euros; and a 60 cm brass coloured Teddy bear that hammered at 9,300 Euros. Other highlights of the 2017 event included the sold-out Teddy bear making workshop, celebratory fireworks, a hot air balloon show, a “meet the mascots” event with Knopf and Frieda, a petting zoo and carnival rides, Steiff valuations provided by the Ladenburger Spielzeugauktion team of experts, and an autograph session with Joachim Steiff and 1. FC Heidenheim 1846 and their mascot Paule. According to one visitor, “I have been attending the Steiff Sommer anually for many years now and every year is special and memorable in its own way. I love being here and all the festival has to offer, especially the sales tent and auction - although I didn’t buy anything at auction. The Steiff Club display in the Schranne was lovely too!” Another visitor added, “Thank you for making Club members feel so welcome and special this year. I am so proud to be part of this worldwide community of collectors. It was a pleasure meeting new friends at the event’s various Club venues and sharing Steiff stories with others who share my passion for all things Steiff.” Photo op with the most senior guest of our “Journey through The Steiff Club team. From left to right: Editor’s note: The Steiff Sommer Time”: Club Manager Inge Zinnecker warmly welcomed Ilse Bätzel Bettina Meyer and Petra May (event speakers), 2018 will take place from 29 June to from Fellbach, and presented her with a beautiful bouquet to mark Petra Huber and Martina Fischer (Steiff Club administration staff) 1 July 2018. the recent occasion of her 90th birthday. and Inge Zinnecker (Steiff Club Manager).
20 21 STEIFF INSIDE STEIFF INSIDE
Behind the scenes
An interview with Steiff's sampling expert.
Sunnhild Walzer is the head of the all-important sample- How are new employees different venues? Which have it's the Studio elephant baby. making department at Steiff headquarters in Giengen. trained in your department? been some of your favourite There's one next to my office desk! She has been part of the company for 27 years. In her own It is learning by doing! locations and why? words, “Sunni” tells us all about her role with Steiff and Understanding a pattern is a major I love the direct contact with Which of Steiff’s antique, what it’s like to be surrounded daily by the world’s favourite part of the training. Even a trained collectors and enthusiasts all vintage, or legacy patterns are toys and collectibles. seamstress from the fashion over the world. It's motivating and your favourites, and why? industry has to re-learn her skills inspiring. New York and Tokyo Then, of Steiff’s more recent when sewing plush. Seams in have been the most impressing items, which have been your fashion are in general straight. locations so far for me. favourites, and why? Please tell us about the range challenging Seams on plush toys are totally My daily concentration and of things that you do for Steiff in to find new different. I would say that sewing You are an expert in enthusiasm is focused on those your job. seamstresses plush is much more sophisticated embroidering the noses and items on which we are working I have to coordinate the making and apprentices than fashion. mouths on Steiff’s Teddy at the moment, whether it’s Sunni spends “Sunni” Walzer of prototypes, photo samples, the for your bears and animals. Collectors collectibles or toys. I love the her days is a veteran zero-series, Studio animals, and department? What has been your most who have participated in a patterns for any jointed bear or surrounded Steiff employee, any other new item created in the I am memorable or unusual project at Teddy bear making workshop animal because this is how it by Steiff bears working for the design department. First we make responsible for Steiff over the years? know firsthand how challenging all began. Joints bring natural and animals, company for prototypes, which are the three- 25 workers in my Well, the making of the giant this can be. How long did it take movements to both hard- and like this Studio 27 years. dimensional implementations department. Yes, “snake slide” inside the Steiff for you to become an expert in soft-stuffed animals. grizzly. of two-dimensional patterns. it is challenging Museum some years ago is this difficult task? Our job is to check if the to find workers something I will never forget. It took me years to learn and to pattern can be realized in serial for our various Just imagine how much plush and improve my skills in embroidering, production. (Editor’s note: “serial production steps. how many metres of seams were and my learning is not over today! production” refers to larger- When I started necessary to build a hollow snake Each nose is different because scale manufacturing on the Steiff to work for from the second to the first floor! it's the major part of the face of production line.) Furthermore I Steiff, the job of a any toy or collectible. Even a have to supervise the making of seamstress was Of all the editions you have millimetre more or less can make what’s called the “zero-series,” to sew. This is worked on, which have been a difference. which is a testing process difficult enough your favourites? Which were to find any potential hidden by itself. Today, very hard or challenging to sew? Do you personally collect manufacturing problems – and our ladies are The Disney editions are very Steiff toys? If so, can you tell then solve them. It is very tricky true specialists challenging in sewing, stuffing, us about your collection and and challenging work, especially in craftsmanship, and finishing. some of your favourites in with the various international toy but also in your collection? safety regulations, such as EN 71 workflow Many collectors outside of I would not call myself a true and US-ASTM, that we must obey management and other arts as well. talent, but it takes at least one year Giengen know you from the collector, but most of the day, I'm painstakingly. There are so many aspects we have of intensive training before they Teddy bear making workshops right in the centre of collectibles to concentrate on with a trained understand why Steiff is different in Europe and the United States. and toys. That's my life and How many people work eye. The ladies in our department and what it means when we talk What is it like to work at these passion! But if you ask me for my in your department? Is it join us with a certain amount of about the “Soul of Steiff”! events and meet collectors at the own favourite, I can clearly say
22 23 HISTORY HISTORY
A lofty achievement
A look at Richard Steiff’s innovative Roloplan kites.
Richard Steiff, the oldest nephew of Margarete Steiff, was a remarkably talented, creative, and visionary man. In addition to being the “father of the Teddy bear,” Richard also invented a number of other interesting items, including a firearm that could shoot around corners, a suit that didn't require a tie, and specialty tire valves. He was also the inventor of a very unique kite design called the Roloplan. Over time, the Roloplan would become important for recreational, scientific, and military purposes, as well as evolve into a major product category for A creative postcard illustrates the joy the company during the early to mid 20th century. and wonder of flying a Roloplan.
Richard, like much of the world After much research and it required minimal storage at the time, was fascinated by the experimentation, Richard debuted space. idea of aviation. The first flight of his innovative tailless Roloplan Steiff started producing the a Zeppelin over Lake Constance kite in 1908. Fortunately, Richard Roloplan commercially in 1909. in 1900 and Orville and Wilbur was able to share the Roloplan Pre-war, the kite was produced The Roloplan was so popular that a special assembly line was established to Wright’s first airplane adventures with his aunt, Margarete Steiff, with two wings in 12 sizes ranging meet the demand. in 1903 both made global news before she died in 1909. The kite from 80 to 360 cm through 1943 headlines and certainly must have itself, made from cloth and light overall. It was also produced with Steiff built a separate division and demand. This is perhaps analogous caught Richard’s eye. It’s likely that rods, was simple to assemble and three wings in 8 sizes ranging manufacturing unit for them on to today’s “selfie stick.” The first The Roloplan in action, soaring above he carefully studied these and other disassemble and came packed in from 180 to 720 cm through 1939 their Giengen campus. aerial photographs of the Steiff a hillside overlooking Giengen. A 1910 kite cata- technological advances in flight – a cloth bag. Commercially, it was overall. The 720 cm version was In addition to its entertainment factory campus were taken by a logue showcases becoming inspired to create his produced with two or three cloth produced in 1910 only; its huge functions, the Roloplan was also Steiff Roloplan. Roloplan kites were the Roloplan. own “flying machine.” wings, usually imprinted with the size and performance in the air used for military and scientific also popular with meteorologists, words “Steiff” and “Roloplan.” made it difficult to manage so it was aims. The German army purchased who used them to help measure Richard received a trademark discontinued. very large Roloplan kites from and track weather conditions. for his Roloplan in 1909; this The Roloplan was originally Steiff and used them for target Some of these working kites were trademark covered all related designed for play, fun, and sport. practice. Given their flight so large and flew so high with such “balloons, aircraft of all types, The design was embraced by many characteristics, Roloplans were force that their reels needed to be airplanes, kites, gliders, and toy kite, flight, and aviation groups; perfect to perform air-to-ground securely mounted to the ground. kites of cloth and paper.” some clubs were specially formed photography for geographic, The Roloplan kite was to study and fly Steiff Roloplan exploration, or planning remarkable in many ways. It was kites. The Roloplan went on to win purposes. Richard Steiff invented Richard Steiff shaped much differently than many international competitions a customized tripod which showing his traditional kites, was easy to fly, as well as gain worldwide fame for allowed a camera to be mounted invention of was very stable in flight, and could its performance and design. The to the Roloplan; this device also mounting a soar to remarkable heights - up Roloplan proved so popular, and enabled the kite operator to snap camera to the to 3,250 feet! When not in use, the demand for it was so high that photographs from the camera on Roloplan kite.
24 25 HISTORY
This page, Steiff Roloplans were also used It would be nearly 40 years bottom right: for marketing - both for Steiff and until Roloplans appeared again in Even in the early for the company’s customers. The the Steiff catalogue. In 2006, Steiff days, the Rolo- company featured Roloplans in produced a 30 cm tall mohair Teddy plan sported their print advertisements and bear holding a tiny, scaled Roloplan the company's catalogues, sometimes showing felt in an edition size of 2,000 pieces signature yellow doll children joyfully playing with and a high-quality replica of the and red corpo- miniature versions of these kites. two-winged, 150 cm Roloplan rate colours. Other Steiff materials showed the from 1909 in an edition size of industrial strength of these kites 1,000 pieces. Today, professional with illustrations of them levitating organizations and collectors’ a man off the ground or pulling a clubs from all over the world person on a sled! Steiff also sold continue to fly and study Steiff’s customized Roloplans to businesses early and original Roloplans for advertising purposes; the and there is quite a lot information names of the companies would be available in the web, e.g. on painted on the cloth wings which www.teddybear-antik.de or could then be seen from the ground www.drachen.org. by large numbers of people as the kites took flight in the sky. Opposite page, Steiff resumed limited Roloplan far right corner: production shortly after the factory In 2006, the reopened for toy making business company paid after the conclusion of WWII. tribute to However, only the red and yellow Richard Steiff’s two-wing version was produced in grand invention 90, 100, and 120 cm postwar. Like with a special their prewar cousins, these all were limited edition easy to construct and disassemble, Teddy with and came in a cloth bag. Postwar miniature Roloplan kites appeared in the Roloplan. catalogue overall through 1968.
Text source: Book “Button in Ear” by Jürgen and Marianne Cieslik, 1989
26
SERVICE SERVICE
Questions and answers
EXPERT INFO: Do you have a question concerning a Steiff item? Find out more here! Ever since the Steiff company started producing plush animals, rabbits have been among the most important designs. Between the years of 1892 and 1943 alone, Dear Steiff Club, Dear Steiff Club, the company manufactured around 100 I am the owner of this Steiff dog. Could you please Some time ago, I found this well-preserved Steiff different types of rabbit in numerous tell me how old it is? It stands about 25 cm tall. rabbit at an antiques market, and I'd like to know a colours and sizes. Rabbits are a separate Could you also provide an estimation as to its little more about this Steiff product. collectors' area, and on many occasions, value? Perhaps you can help me? rare and particularly well-preserved items ?T. Z., by e-mail EXPERT INFO: ?B. R., by e-mail have achieved astonishing results at various auctions. From the beginning, clothed animal This dog is what is known as the Pupp-Bazi Mädel Initially, your find appears to be a white rabbit. figures have been among the most or Bazili (“Dachshund Doll Girl”), which was only popular, but also the most intricate plush However, on closer inspection, you will see that the produced between 1950 and 1954. The one in your animals. The catalogue of 1892 already rabbit has brown glass eyes. Red eyes were usually possession is still wearing the original blouse and contains clothed monkeys – e.g. a jockey used for white rabbits. The extensive range of rabbits skirt. Originally, this lady dog in the traditional or a clown – as well as clothed skittle made by Steiff includes only one model that matches costume also wore a white apron and a felt hat with figures. Today, historic plush animals the design of yours. It was a new item in 1930, and a real feather. There is also a huntsman's version of made before 1943 with the original was made under the simple designation “Rabbit, lying Pupp-Bazi Bub to go with the traditionally-dressed clothing made of felt or fabric are highly down” in seven sizes from 6 to 17 cm. This appears The remnants of the original red ear tag under the girl. Both were new figures in 1950, and represent sought-after collectors' items, and are to be a sitting version, but the catalogue designation “Button in Ear” are important for dating the item, and a short-haired dachshund. They continue the long very difficult to find with a full set of really is “lying down”. Unlike the postwar period, most in the case of your rabbit put it at the early production tradition of animal figures of the 1930s, in which over original clothing. Of course, the Teddy bear of the rabbits made before 1943 do not have their own time from 1930 to 1934/35. The type and colour of the was also clothed, and the post-1908 a dozen different kinds of animals were offered as names. “Rabbit, lying down” is made of maize or light bow around its neck show that it did not originally plush versions are considered particularly Pupp animals. Typical of these animals of the 1930s brown mohair plush, and was an extremely popular belong to this item. The rabbit as a pet and Easter item rare today; they have even been are the un-jointed fabric body and sewn-on hanging item. It was made in various sizes until the early are among the most popular animal models, and were immortalised on postcards. arms. This design was resumed in 1949 for various 1940s. An identical model was made of wool plush. appreciated equally by children in the past and today's animals, including your “Pupp-Bazi Mädel”. This Your model's mohair plush has faded, and it is in fact collectors. Finding a pre-war model dating back to the figure was available as item 325M, and is known with the light colouring of the underlying material that tells early 1930s on an antiques market is undoubtedly an two different skirts: an earlier one that was striped, us it was originally maize. exceptional stroke of good fortune. and a later one with flowers. The original design of the dress is not to be found in the relevant collectors' literature, but there is a picture Catalogue extract of 1954 in the main catalogue of 1951/52 of this very with the alternative cloth- version. Your dog still has – you can just see ing as also seen in the it – a scrap remaining of the US Zone tag that collectors' literature. was common at this time, and this is further proof of its very early manufacture. With regard to its value, it is impossible to say due to fluctuating market tendencies. Please refer Catalogue extract of to the relevant literature or auction results of 1951/52 with a full set of Rabbit, similar items. the original clothing for lying down, Puppbazi Mädel. item no. 2315 in the catalogue of 1933.
30 31 PORTRAIT PORTRAIT
A family affair
Our series on Margarete Steiff’s nephews concludes.
Margarete Steiff's nephews contributed to the growth and success of the company. In the past issues of the magazine, we reported about Paul, Richard, Hugo and Otto Steiff and we will conclude the series with Franz and Ernst Steiff.
FRANZ STEIFF belt-weaving plant within Steiff. Franz Steiff, the third son of For many years afterwards, the Fritz Steiff, Margarete’s brother, company would remain diversified was born in 1878. He joined through its operations in this field. his aunt’s company in 1898 at Personally, Ernst was known as the age of 20. Like his brothers a very talented musician who could before him, Franz had a specific, play the flute and the piano. He and personal business interest which his wife Sophie had two sons and fit perfectly with his family’s two daughters. They married in growing enterprise. Franz was 1928 when he was 38. very interested in fabrics and Throughout his life, he was textiles. After finishing his studies known for being a pious Christian Franz Steiff in and apprenticeship in weaving, – sometimes preaching from A snapshot of an informal he began working at Steiff as an pulpits around Giengen. During Ernst Steiff as portrait administrator, with a focus on World War II, he was held captive a young boy. with his wife. materials and how they could by the government because of his best be used in the design and religious convictions. He died in manufacturing processes. 1953 at the age of 63. A formal Far right: A As time went on, Franz’s portrait of Ernst formal portrait responsibilities expanded to Steiff, inventor of Franz Steiff, include financial as well as of the seamless inventor of purchasing activities. Franz conveyor belt. the famous was very involved in expanding “Button in Ear” Steiff’s international business. trademark. He did a great deal of travelling, and even worked in England to home in Giengen, Franz is also the person who invented Steiff’s ERNST STEIFF that he grew very religious, to help grow and manage that credited with the idea of setting up now legendary “Button in Ear” Ernst Steiff is the youngest of studying the Bible intensively. For very important market. He was home production networks. This branding in 1904. This was a key the nine children of Fritz and Anna a time, he even worked there as a instrumental in setting up Steiff’s revolutionary idea enabled women event in the company’s history and Steiff. After training at the Steiff missionary. offices in Italy, the Netherlands, in the Giengen area to sew for Steiff remains integral to the Steiff brand company as a young man, Ernst After returning to Germany, Portugal, and Austria, as well as from their own homes and on their more than a century onward. Franz moved to the United States and Ernst is credited with inventing expanding Steiff’s German sales own schedules. died in 1908 at age 30 after a long studied electrical engineering. It the seamless conveyor belt. Based and distribution networks. Closer Franz is perhaps best known as illness. was during his time in America on his invention, he established a
32 33 DISCOVERIES DISCOVERIES
Secrets from the archives
An ongoing look at rare, unproduced creations from the company’s past (4).
The Steiff archive, located on Steiff’s campus in Giengen, Germany, holds the company’s manufacturing history all within several large rooms. These dedicated areas contain over 15,000 Steiff items and rarities, with the earliest example being one of Margarete Steiff’s original felt elephants from 1880! The temperature in the archives is always between 60 and 64 degrees, and the humidity is always between 50 to 60%. This is strictly maintained in order to make this storage environment as safe and secure as possible.
In addition to examples appearance, and wool plush as This set Note the handwritten design critiques by Paul Steiff in these photographs of the begging dog produced on a commercial scale, a fabric choice. Collectors might of nine wood and the leather elephant. Comments about the elephant are written directly on his belly! the archive also houses many recognize his distinctive “begging” blocks, called one-of-a-kind experimental items. position, which was seen on a few Steiff’s“Wood These items were produced as other patterns of the time. These Cube Railway” idea samples, but were never include the company's wool plush was produced in put into production for practical, Baldo from 1929-1932 and mohair 1936. Probably economic, or supply chain issues. Poodle from 1929-1932. designed as a For the most part, these items The pull toy from 1920 was puzzle or game, every block The “Wood were not fully documented, and are also created by Paul Steiff. His has an illustration of a different Cube Railway” somewhat of a mystery today. We production notes are written in railway car on each of its six set of wooden already shared a few interesting ink on its belly. The elephant is faces. Children could have lined blocks was ones from the Steiff archives. Due made from sheep leather and rides up the blocks to make their own created in 1936. to popular demand, here are a few upon four wooden wheels. It is trains, played a colour or shape more fascinating finds and the possible that it was designed in matching game, or made up their possible backgrounds behind them. leather to mirror the look of real own activities with this creative According to a tag attached to elephant skin. Also, during this toy. However, this item was not the arm, the jointed, grey wool time, woollen materials were still produced on a commercial level. plush dog was created in 1929 by scarce due to post World War I Steiff did produce a number of cube Margarete’s nephew Paul Steiff. supply chain limitations, and the style toys in the 1930s as building Although the overall design was company could have been exploring sets and games for children. appealing, the fabric was not, and alternative materials. Although this A similarly designed nine block the dog was probably determined leather pull toy elephant never went set, made from 1936 through to be too difficult to produce on into production, its youthful and 1943, featured primary-coloured a commercial scale. This dog cheerful design, later named “Play illustrations of six of Steiff’s most displays several typical features Elephant,” did. Pre-war, it was beloved animal designs as puzzles. characteristic of the late 1920s and manufactured in curled wool plush These included a Teddy bear, early 1930s, including oversized from 1934 to 1941, and in arti- an elephant, a duck, a cat, a dog, glass pupil eyes, a youthful ficial silk plush from 1938 to 1943. and a rabbit.
34 35 PASSIONS PASSIONS
Marvels in miniature
Scottish artist creates miniatures inspired by Steiff items.
The magic of Steiff is an ongoing source of inspiration for What was your first artists of all types, all around the world. In this edition of the miniature? Club magazine, we introduce you to Elizabeth Leggat – a talented My first miniature was a Teddy miniaturist who creates amazingly tiny versions of her bear, inspired by the bear in my favourite Steiff treasures. collection, Mr Rusty.
Which was the hardest miniature project to complete? Do you collect Steiff toys? by the wide range of items that I think the one hardest to I have a collection of vintage were made with such skill. make was an exciting commission Steiff toys that are very special to inspired by the antique Steiff me, including a mohair tiger from How long have you been promotional postcard. This tableau my childhood. I can remember making miniature Teddy bears took months, with extensive always being fascinated by his and other toys? research into the clothing. Twelve green eyes as they were luminous I started to make miniature Teddy bears ranging in size from in the dark. I have a few early Teddy bears in 1995. I found a tiny 2.5 inches to 3.75 inches gather bears in my collection as well. mohair bear in the street as a child around the table for a game of Among my favourites is Mr Rusty. and was always fascinated by its Throw the Dice; they are all Although they are as detailed as their full-sized counterparts, He is 13 inches tall and was size. I am sure this little bear had dressed for the gathering wearing Elizabeth Leggat’s toys are a fraction of the size of the originals. the first in my collection. His an influence on my decision to name was chosen due to the create miniatures. colour of his dark cinnamon mohair.My display cabinet stands Tell us the range of items in the hallway in my home, it inspired by Steiff you have made gives me great pleasure to pass in miniature. it every day and enjoy seeing the I have created many toys adorable contents peeping out at inspired by Steiff. Teddy bears in me. particular, including a Harlequin Bear, Dolly Bears, Teddy Baby, What about Steiff items Petsy, bears on wheels and Roly makes them interesting from Poly characters. Teddy clowns are the artist perspective? also a favourite. Some of the bears Miniaturist Steiff Club: Tell us your name The Steiff items have a unique have their own, very authentic Elizabeth Leggat and where you live. certain magic about them; they looking little accessories. My with some of Elizabeth: My name is Elizabeth have a charm and charisma that husband is an engineer and can her creations. Leggat. I live in Scotland with my is second to none. This was so create just about anything I need. husband Bob and a little wire fox inspiring to me and drew me to A few animals have also been terrier named Teddy Girl. I have them from the start. They exude created, Foxy dogs, cats, monkeys, been a full-time Teddy bear artist top quality and the attention to mice, ducks, penguins, and since 1995. detail is amazing. I am fascinated recently a Putzi inspired character. A museum installation of Elizabeth Leggat’s work.
36 37 PASSIONS CULT TOUR
E-mail from Africa
Meet Aboki, the African Wild Dog.
their highly-detailed outfits. Their materials. They are serenaded by often asked to create a miniature Greetings from the oak table and chairs and tiny dice three cute musicians, a trombone of a collectors beloved vintage plains of Sub-Saharan were handmade to the correct scale player, violinist, and a sweet Steiff item. To begin with I will Africa, the place that I call home. My name is by my husband, Bob. Teddy girl fanfare blower. All are then ask them for some details Aboki, the African Wild Dog. I am also known as an specially dressed for the occasion, about the original and maybe some African Hunting Dog, an African Painted Dog or a Painted What is one of your favourite they are also 3.5 inches tall. The photographs. This is important to Wolf. This is because of my distinctive and unusual fur, which miniature projects? bears stand on a revolving musical try to capture the individual look. in real life is stiff and bristle-like and a mix of brown, black, A favourite piece created is a platform surrounded in vintage When I have all the information white, yellow, and white. African Wild Dogs are very social animals, set of Dancing Bears, a very special flowers all ready to enjoy a dance to and details required, I will start to especially when it comes to eating and sharing our meals. Antelopes are commission for the Spielzeug Love Story when the mechanism is design my pattern, and source and our favourite food, and we have developed special hunting skills over time Welten Museum in Switzerland. wound up. gather together all the materials to catch them. Unfortunately, because of changes to our habitat, hunters, It was inspired by the rare Steiff needed to create the item. I also and animal diseases, we are considered an endangered species by Bears display from the 1920s. It What is the preparation you may have to dye and age the The International Union for Conservation of Nature. A famous Steiff was a real challenge to create their undertake to make a Steiff item mohair and fabrics for clothing. Please don’t be scared of me because I have the advertising clothing with the tiny patterns and in miniature? word “wild” in my name. Like all of Steiff’s photograph all the details. The setting consists The first thing I do is study any How long on average does it soft plush toys, we just want to be “friends is re-created of the main couple Dancing photographs that are available. It take you to make a miniature? for life” with you and promise to be well with bears Bears, 3 and 3.5 inches tall; they would be wonderful to be able to The time varies so much behaved. The only thing “wild” that are only are dressed in their best finery actually have the actual item but depending on the project. A bear about us will be how much fun we 6 to 10 cm tall. made from antique and vintage this is usually not possible. I am will probably take about three have together! At 38 cm, I am just days, using a pattern I have already the right size to join you on all designed. It will take a little longer of your adventures every day. If if some simple clothing is required. that includes getting a little muddy If I am designing a new item it can sometimes, that’s okay as I am take weeks from start to finish. machine washable. And at night, I promise to guard Have your miniatures been you against bad dreams on exhibit or featured in any and any monsters magazines? that are hiding Many pieces of my work are under your exhibited in the Spielzeug Welten bed! Museum in Basel, Switzerland, the largest of its kind in Europe. My work has been featured in various bear magazines over the years, both at home and abroad. Being so passionate about vintage Steiff items, I am thrilled to be included in the Steiff Club magazine.
38 39 VENUES VENUES
Making a big impression
Toy Fairs are an important part of Steiff’s sales and marketing programmes.
Since the turn of last century, Steiff has officially debuted its new annual According to Jim Pitocco, offerings through trade fairs. It is at these events where the world learns about President of Steiff North America, the company’s newest and most exciting products. For example, it was at the “It is very important that Steiff 1903 Leipzig Spring Fair that the company introduced PB55, the grandfather of has a prominent showing at Toy all Teddy bears! Today, Steiff participates in several fairs around the world. Fair, especially because the brand is not as well known here in the States as it is in Europe. This show over time has been a key factor in These toy events, which are Asia, North America, Australia, Steiff felt it needed to attend this building the brand in the USA. Our open to the trade only, are a and more – all travel to these fairs. fair to show how the company trade stand at the Renaissance is very important part of Steiff’s Attendance is truly global. It’s a leads the market and treasures its the perfect location as it captures worldwide advertising, sales, wonderful way to get new people history and traditions. the energy of Times Square and and marketing programmes. The excited about Steiff and also to Not surprisingly, Steiff’s 2017 the event, while at the same time company spends many months inspire our current retailers.” Nuremberg stand was the talk of providing our attendees with a planning for these exhibitions. Steiff has a long history the whole fair. The company’s booth little peace and quiet so they can According to Ian Munro, Steiff’s participating in the Nuremberg featured the world’s largest Teddy study and appreciate our novelties. A giant Steiff Director of International Sales, Toy Fair. The company’s stand has bear, a giant inflatable, which was Some customers spend a half Teddy bear was “These events give the company always been a highlight destination visible from all over the trade show day at our stand. As such, our the talk of this a great opportunity to show how for attendees. After a brief break, floor! This fantastic landmark location, logistics, and hospitality year's Nurem- strong the Steiff brand is. People Steiff returned to Nuremberg in became the ultimate “selfie” are perfectly set up to make their berg Toy Fair. from all over the world – Europe, 2017. As a beloved global brand, opportunity for fair-goers. The experience as welcoming as stand itself was large and occupied possible.” two floors, making it the heart of Steiff’s trade fairs remain the fair. important to collectors as they are Toy Fair in the United States the first chance retailers get to see is another major annual trade new collections and determine fair venue. This event is held in what they will present to you, their the Jacob K. Javits Convention customers. Fairs are a sure sign Center in New York City, as well you’ll be seeing new Steiff creations as in other showroom venues in the very near future. And, for across Manhattan. Steiff North a collector, what could be more America sets up its trade stand exciting? at the Renaissance Times Square Hotel, located right at the epicentre of the city. The Steiff team takes over several hotel meeting rooms and the venue is packed from the beginning to the end of the four- Scenes from the day event. 2017 Nuremberg Toy Fair.
40 41 VENUES VENUES
New Steiff Shops
The brand shines in the recently opened Steiff Shops.
Düsseldorf Following the relocation and conversion, the new, bigger Steiff Flagship Store opened in Düsseldorf on 27 April 2017. People have been able to immerse themselves in the cuddly world of the brand with the “Button in Ear” in the Kö Galerie since 2011. The new Steiff Flagship Store is in a prominent location at the heart of the Kö Galerie. The whole Steiff range in all its colourfulness is available here on a generous sales area of 160 m2, furnished in the newly developed corporate design. There is so much to see and explore – why not pop in and be amazed! Ms Caffarena and her team are looking forward to your visit! Steiff Shop, Kö Galerie, Königsallee 60d, 40212 Düsseldorf (Club store)
Stuttgart The Steiff Shop Stuttgart opened in the newly-constructed Dorotheen Quarter on 30 May. This shop also proudly features the new look on an area of 40 m2. The Dorotheen Quarter is in the centre of the town, right next to Breuninger, between the town hall and the market hall, and exceeds an area of 60,000 m2, 11,500 m2 of which are retail and dining areas. Ms Berger and her team are looking forward to your visit! Steiff Shop, Dorotheen Quartier, Karlstr. 3, 70173 Stuttgart (Club store)
Hannover In addition to the Steiff Shops in Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne, Nuremberg, Wiesbaden and the Steiff Outlet Wertheim Village, two further shops opened in Hannover and Sulzbach in November 2015. In Hannover, on the first floor of the Ernst-August-Galerie, you will find what is probably one of the loveliest shopping experiences for all ages. Everyone's favourite animal can be found on the shop's 70 m2 – along with a furry companion for life. Ms Prasuhn and her team are looking forward to your visit! Steiff Shop Hannover, Ernst-August-Galerie, Ernst-August-Platz 2, 30159 Hannover (Club store)
Sulzbach At the Main Taunus Zentrum in Sulzbach, you can immerse yourself in the colourful world of Steiff on a sales area of 50 2m . The product portfolio of our Steiff Shop includes classic Teddy bears, true-to-nature cuddly animals, exclusive baby items for small children and new-borns, and the Steiff Children's Fashion Collection in sizes 56-116. Ms Giannone and her team are looking forward to your visit! Steiff Shop Sulzbach, Main-Taunus-Zentrum, Am Main-Taunus-Zentrum, 65843 Sulzbach (Taunus)
42 43 VENUES VENUES
A new home in Paris Fun in the windy city
Steiff has returned to GALERIES LAFAYETTE. The Steiff Teddy bear workshop comes to Chicago.
We are pleased to announce the return of Steiff to GALERIES LAFAYETTE Steiff North America held a full weekend of Teddy Bear making work- on Boulevard Haussmann in Paris. You’ll find a warm and friendly space shops in Chicago, Illinois on 1st and 2nd October 2016 at the historic filled with “Button in Ear” delights on the fifth floor of the famed and very beautiful Renaissance Blackstone Hotel on Michigan Avenue. department store. Come meet our salesperson, Justine, who will be Chicago is located right in the heart of the United States, but people pleased to welcome and advise you about all our ranges – baby, from all over the world attended, with collectors travelling from as far children’s, Studio, mohair, and limited editions. away as the UK, Canada, California, Hawaii, and Washington State.
Come admire and take life”! Be the first to learn about Three workshops were held - with them. Highlights included an photographs of the life-sized any new additions to the booth, two on Saturday and one on Sunday early postwar silk plush trout, a Studio animals, then share thanks to our special Facebook - with 60 bears in total being made. rare Neander caveman doll, and a the pictures with your friends. page: https://www.facebook.com/ About half the participants brought number of precious Teddy bears. Discover a showcase filled with steiffgalerieslafayette/ along a spouse, friend, or colleague Each workshop also included treasures from the mohair and to assist them. There were goodie bags, a shopping area limited editions range. Go back husbands and wives, mothers and featuring a range of international Scenes from home with a new “friend for daughters, and even grandmothers exclusives, prizes and drawings, the Chicago and granddaughters working in and refreshments. workshop. pairs on the bears. Keeping with the Ralf Fahrig, Sunnhild Walzer, theme of the autumn and Iveta Hartmann from Steiff season, guests were Make your own Steiff teddy came all the way from Giengen, treated with warm Germany to Chicago to lead this pretzels, as well as event. They did a wonderful job freshly baked treats, Welcome to our fun-filled workshop at GALERIES LAFAYETTE. making everyone feel good about and hot and cold their stitching and design choices, beverages. and were so helpful in making sure the workshop ran smoothly and Editor’s Note: On 25 November, GALERIES at: [email protected]. TTC, which includes the customized successfully. Another workshop LAFAYETTE will host a hands- The fee for participation is 300 € bear and other additional extras. Carolyn Smith, Steiff North will be held in October on Teddy Bear workshop for all America’s Club Manager, and in the San Francisco Steiff fans. No sewing experience Rebekah Kaufman, Steiff North bay area. Watch your is necessary, and you’ll leave the America’s Consultant Archivist, mailbox for complete workshop with your very own welcomed participants, talked with details. personalized mohair Teddy! With them about their collections, and only 20 spaces available, you’ll thanked them for participating in want to register quickly to ensure the Steiff Club and the Workshop. you’ll be able to participate. Rebekah also did evaluations on Reservations will be accepted in the many vintage Steiff collectibles order received. To register, email us the participants brought along
44 45 THE CLUB PAGE THE CLUB PAGE
Give a gift membership,
recruit a new member or Application form
OO I would like to become a member of the Steiff Club renew your membership very easily. OO I would like to give a gift membership in the Steiff Club OO I am a member and would like to recruit a new member
As a Club member, you probably already know the benefits that Our current gifts if you recruit a new member Details new member: O Ms O Mrs O Mr I wish to pay my membership subscription for membership brings to you. But perhaps you've forgotten some of the (delivery as long as stocks last): OO one year (50 EUR /60 CHF / 42 GBP) details, or would like to recruit a new member to share in the fun. First name, surname Please complete in clearly legible block capitals! OO two years (90 EUR /100 CHF / 75 GBP) OO three years (130 EUR /150 CHF / 105 GBP) If so, we would welcome them warmly! for a 1-year membership: Teddy bag, 21 cm, item no. 600999, Address Happy Friend Knuffi Teddy bear, 28 cm, item no. 282232, non-European countries (exluding the USA) THE CLUB BENEFITS Mr. Cupcake rabbit, 28 cm, item no. 080265 Postcode, town OO one year: 100 EUR »» Exclusive Club editions OO two years: 180 EUR »» Annual high-quality gift OO three years: 250 EUR Country »» Invitation to Club events »» The Steiff Club magazine free to your door »» Current product information Telephone no. O by direct debit (until cancelled, throughout Europe in Euros only) »» Free entrance to the Steiff museum e-mail: account holder bank
The Steiff Club membership card Date of birth IBAN This membership card allows you to enjoy privileges such as free entry to the Steiff museum in Giengen. The card also means you for a 2-year membership: Your Club store (if known) BIC can benefit from special offers at various Steiff events. Mimmi cat, 24, cm, item no. 099434, Nrommi yeti, 20 cm, item no. 015205, Details gift giving person or member who is recommending: O Ms O Mrs O Mr O with the enclosed cheque The Steiff Club magazine Cosy Year bear 2017, 34 cm, item no. 690037 In the Steiff Club magazine you can find lots of interesting First name, surname O by bank transfer to the following account: information and the latest news regarding Steiff and the Club. National Westminster Bank Plc., Branch sort code 60-04-04, The magazine will be delivered free to your door twice a year Address account name: Margarete Steiff GmbH, (in February and in August). IBAN: GB79 NWBK 6004 0425 6357 19, BIC: NWBK GB 2L Postcode, town The Club events Duration of membership: The personal membership year begins on 1st February, 1st May, 1st August, or 1st November depending on in which quarter the At Steiff Club events like-minded enthusiasts can talk shop with Country application is received and lasts for one year. Membership is automatically experts and compare notes with friends. They get to know the renewed for a further year, unless cancelled within the period specified in the novelties of Steiff and only here the Event Teddy bear is available. renewal notice the Steiff Club sends to every member. Gift memberships are Telephone no. not renewed automatically. At the end of the personal membership year, the At the events, special items only available in selected countries are membership can be renewed by the person who placed the order or the member also on offer as special highlights. for a 3-year membership: themselves. e-mail: Elmar Teddy bear, 32 cm, item no. 022456 Right of withdrawal: You have two weeks in which you may cancel the membership Online offers Moritz dachshund, 30 cm, item no. 076985 application in writing. Please write to the following address in good time: Steiff Date of birth Club, Margarete Steiff GmbH, Postfach 15 60, 89530 Giengen an der Brenz, In the Club selection at www.steiff.com, you will find the Steiff Boeky lamb, 40 cm, item no. 103490 Germany swap meet, downloads and much more. Membership number (only when you recruit a new member) Notes on data protection: By providing your signature below, you confirm that you give your consent to your data given above being collected, processed, and The exclusive Club editions Please send the first mailing to: O the recipient of the gift membership O me personally utilised by Margarete Steiff GmbH, the Steiff Club, and your Steiff Club store. The As a member, you have the possibility to purchase special Club (A gift certificate can be downloaded from www.steiff.com/Club/product information and more) data will be collected, processed and utilised confidentially and in accordance with the data protection regulations of Margarete Steiff GmbH, the German Data editions, either from a Club store in your area, via postal direct order My preferred gift: (when you recruit a new member) Protection Act, and further statutory regulations. Any passing on of data to third or on www.steiff.com. Each member receives a personalised order parties will take place exclusively for the purpose of the contractual relationship, e.g. for handling payment transactions, sending Club information, and invitations form for the Club editions. The 2017 Club edition is limited to Item no. to Club events. If you have any further questions, comments, or require information 1,992 pieces and no longer available. about your data, please contact Margarete Steiff GmbH, Postfach 1560, 89530 Giengen an der Brenz, Germany. Name The annual Club gift Every membership year you will receive an exclusive Steiff gift. Delivered free of charge to your door while supplies last. The gift will be sent approximately 4 to 6 weeks after receipt of the new member's subscription. You will receive a notification by mail or e-mail giving you Date Signature It will be sent to you after renewal of your membership at the the voucher code for 75 €. Cash payment is not possible. Recourse to courts of law is likewise excluded. beginning of your personal membership year. The membership You have several possibilities to answer: Cut out or copy the form and send it by mail to the Steiff Club, Margarete Steiff GmbH, Postfach 1560, 89530 Giengen years begin on 1st February, 1st May, 1st August, or 1st November. or fax it to: 49 (0)7322 131-476. Members renewing for two or three years will receive their annual gift or a 75 EUR voucher for the Steiff online shop (Germany, The easiest way is per online application at: www.steiff.com/Club with the first shipment of the Steiff Club early in February. France, Austria and UK only). Place/Date Signature of person who is recommending and new member This application is valid until 10th December 2017.
46 47 MAIL BOX CALENDAR
Readers' letters Club Events
I missed the Steiff Teddy Bear workshop in Chicago. Do you plan on holding Germany any more workshops in the United States in the near future? 31/08 Mayersche Buchhandlung KG, Aachen tel.: +49 (0)241 47770 J.B., Atlanta, Georgia 16/09 Spielwaren Kurtz, Stuttgart tel.: +49 (0)711 238520 You’re in luck! We are planning to hold the next U.S. Teddy Bear Workshop on 20/09 Galeria Kaufhof GmbH, Frankfurt (including signing session with Joachim Steiff) tel.: +49 (0)69 2191518 20/21 October in Marin County, California, in the San Francisco Bay area. At press 22+29/09 Galeria Kaufhof GmbH, Düsseldorf tel.: +49 (0)211 1391236 time, details were still being finalized, but all Club members will receive notifications 06/10 Mukk GmbH, Münster tel.: +49 (0)251 97959530 by both regular mail and e-mail with all information. We’re planning a full weekend 06/10 Spielwaren Lütgenau, Dortmund tel.: +49 (0)231 5490525 07/10 Galerie Seebär, Immenstaad tel.: +49 (0)7545 941460 of fun, fellowship, and surprises, so save the date and watch your mailboxes for 10/10 Spielwaren Letzel, Heilbronn tel.: +49 (0)7131 83986 complete details – coming soon! 10/10 Stackmann GmbH & Co. KG, Buxtehude tel.: +49 (0)4161 506673 12/10 Galeria Kaufhof GmbH, Siegburg tel.: +49 (0)2241 9930 12/10 Spielwaren Reindl, Fürstenfeldbruck tel.: +49 (0)8141 5255344 I really enjoy the new “Archive finds” section of the magazine. I enjoy it 13+14/10 Heinrich Roskothen, Duisburg (NI) tel.: +49 (0)203 20280 so much, in fact, that I wondered if it’s possible to come to Germany and tour 13/10 Galeria Kaufhof GmbH, Köln tel.: +49 (0)221 2234501 the archives in person. Are tours available? 14/10 SammlerKontor OHG, Wehrheim tel.: +49 (0)6081 9285497 19/10 Wilhelm Witthoff OHG, Gütersloh tel.: +49 (0)5241 92300 D.T., Santa Rose, California 20/10 Galeria Kaufhof GmbH, Bonn tel.: +49 (0)228 5160 Since the environment in the archives must be carefully controlled for light exposure, 21/10 Galeria Kaufhof GmbH, Wuppertal tel.: +49 (0)202 499268 temperature, and humidity, public tours are, unfortunately, not available. Preservation 26/10 Galeria Kaufhof GmbH, München tel.: +49 (0)89 23185733 of the articles stored in the Archives is the paramount concern, so we are unable to host 27/10 Eckhard Schulz e. K., Hagen tel.: +49 (0)2331 14504 visitors. But keep watching the pages of the Steiff Club magazine – we’re planning more 06/11 TeeSA GmbH, Traunstein tel.: +49 (0)861 70696593 “Archive finds” for future issues. It’s the next-best thing to being there! 09/11 Steiff Shop, Düsseldorf tel.: +49 (0)211 8681758 10/11 Silvias Bärenstube, Kerpen tel.: +49 (0)2237 921701 10/11 Steiff Shop, Hamburg tel.: +49 (0)40 32526264 11/11 Steiff Shop, Berlin tel.: +49 (0)30 88625006 Is it possible to renew my Steiff Club membership electronically? 15/11 Galeria Kaufhof GmbH, Mönchengladbach tel.: +49 (0)2161 2780 F.A., Cologne, Germany 17/11 E und E Spielwaren GmbH, Remshalden-Geradstetten tel.: +49 (0)7151 71691 We are pleased to offer online renewals both at www.steiff.com and at 22/11 Galeria Kaufhof GmbH, Mannheim tel.: +49 (0)621 380450 www.steiffusa.com. 23/11 Steiff Shop, Wiesbaden tel.: +49 (0)611 1666999 For U.S. members: Just enter “Club” in search box window, and you’ll be directed to 24/11 Steiff Shop, Nürnberg tel.: +49 (0)911 2355074 the appropriate pages which will allow you to renew. But don’t worry if you still prefer 25/11 Steiff Shop, Köln tel.: +49 (0)221 25899100 to renew the old-fashioned way. Of course, we still accept renewals via “snail mail” or 25/11 Steiff Museum Shop, Giengen tel.: +49 (0)7322 131731 06/12 Galeria Kaufhof GmbH, Kassel (NI) tel.: +49 (0)561 7896374 by telephone. Simply send your completed form with payment to: Steiff Club Renewals, find further will Subject dates Please at to change. contact the Clubwww.steiff.com stores for furtherYou information. NI = Novelty introduction 24 Albion Road, Suite 220, Lincoln, RI, 02865. To renew by phone, call 888-078-3433 (toll free) or 401- 312-0080, then select option 2. UK For European members: Please create an online account and enter your membership 06/09 Teddy Station - Teddy bear workshop (including signing session), Southend on Sea tel.: +44 (0)1720 611106 number. This will enable you to use the swap meet and the magazine archive as well as 14/09 Jarrold & Sons Ltd (including signing session with Joachim Steiff), Norwich tel.: +44 (0)1603 660661 to renew your membership. 21/10 Harrods (including signing session), London tel.: +44 (0)20 77301234 For members in Asia and others: Please get in touch with your Club store. Netherlands / Austria Sweden / France / Switzerland 07/10 Hesemans, Breda tel.: +31 (0)76 5212310 21/10 Margarethas Dockskap, Kosta tel.: +46 (0)70 9287769 28/10 Berelijn, Dordrecht tel.: +31 (0)78 6318028 09/11 Il Était Une Fois Un Autre Monde, Paris tel.: +33 (0)1 45482110 20/10 Steiff in Wien tel.: +43 (0)1 533601874 09/11 Steiff Shop und Pegasus, Zürich tel.: +41 (0)4 2124642 21/10 Puppenstube, Wien tel.: +43 (0)1 8656589
48 49 FAVOURITE FAVOURITE
A little inspiration
A famous artist’s work triggers the imagination of a young boy.
It was a dreary day. The sky was dark and gloomy, the air was chilly, and it was would want me to look like a flower-filled pond for sure.” So he grabbed the green and raining hard. It was not a day to play outside. Axel had run out of things to do. He just blue markers and started to colour in his outline. He then added in some red and yellow finished a jigsaw puzzle, built a bridge from wooden blocks, and drew a picture of a highlights, to show how sunbeams would reflect on the water. family of frogs - his favourite animals of all. He really wanted to go outdoors and Mother looked over the drawing carefully. She smiled and told Axel that the drawing practice football, but his mother would not allow it. He was mad at her, and the weather, was marvellous. But, she added, “If you are a Monet pond, then you are and bored, all at the same time. missing something important. Do you know what that is?” Axel looked at her for a hint. His mother, sensing that Axel was unhappy, called him over to her side. She was in He then said, “Let me take another look at some of the paintings in your book to see the living room, reading a big book by the fireplace. Axel looked up, but pretended not if I can figure that out.” to hear her. She called to him again, this time saying, “How would you like to add some Axel brought the book to the kitchen table and started looking through it, making colour to your day?” sure not to get any ink from the markers on the pages. He noticed that many of Axel was intrigued by this. He put his anger aside and went over to her. She pulled Mr Monet’s ponds had lily pads and flowers. He asked his Mom, “Perhaps I am missing him up on her lap. She was reading a book about Claude Monet, an Impressionist painter these things in my drawing?” Our designer famous for his bright and colourful landscapes and love of the outdoors. “Come take Mother’s eyes lit up. She went to her sewing box and got out pieces of white and series continues a look at these marvellous paintings,” she said. “They were created by a man over green felt. She handed the felt to Axel and said, “Yes, you are exactly right! Perhaps you with an elephant a century ago who loved to be outside as much as you do!” would like to add a felt lily pad and flower to your drawing, so it really stands out!” (below) and a As they flipped through the pages, several of the works Axel worked to fold and cut the felt so it made a perfect flower. He glued the felt Teddy bear (far really caught Axel’s eye. He said, “These are so happy flower to his drawing. It really made the picture even more beautiful - like a real Monet left) inspired and colourful. I especially like the paintings with lots painting! He was proud of his work, and mother gave him a hug of congratulations by the works of of blue and green and flowers in them!” upon completing it. She even hung it on the refrigerator, so everyone in the family Claude Monet. Mother smiled and they kept looking at the pages in could admire it. the book. Then mother said, “If Mr Monet was to draw your Just then, the sun broke from the clouds and the rain stopped. picture, what would it look like?” Axel looked at her, and was Axel asked his mother if he could finally go outside again, after being confused. “How could that happen, as you stuck inside all day. She said yes, then and asked him if he was going told me he passed away many years ago?” to practice football. And Axel looked at her and responded, Then mother went to the closet where “Not right now. I first really need to ask my frog friends she kept her art supplies and pulled out where to find real life lily pads and flowers!” a large sheet of white drawing paper and a big box of coloured markers. She Editor’s Note: In appreciation of the inspiration cleared off the kitchen table and put provided by Monet, we proudly present the second the art supplies upon it. “Why don’t YOU installment in our “Designer’s Choice” series. pretend to be Mr Monet, and let’s see These two pieces include a Teddy bear (much what you come up with?” she said. like the one Axel created in the above story), Axel was intrigued with this idea. along with a re-interpretation of Margarete He took a seat at the table and picked Steiff’s felt elephant pincushion, this time in up a black marker. He drew the Monet-inspired colours and patterns. It is outline of his shape - a Teddy bear. His our hope that Monet inspires you as much as mother then said, “Now, what colours he inspired our designers – and Axel! would your body be?” Axel thought for a moment and said, “Mr Monet
50 51 Margarete Steiff GmbH, Richard-Steiff-Straße 4, 89537 Giengen anderBrenz 4,89537 Richard-Steiff-Straße GmbH, Margarete Steiff climate neutral PK-DE-00660 printin g 916106