Object Record
Images
Metadata
Object ID # |
1975.083.186 |
Object Name |
Figure, Toy |
Lexicon category |
9: Recreational Artifacts |
Date |
Early 20th-century? |
Artist |
Britains, Limited |
Made |
Britains, Limited? |
Place of Origin |
England, United Kingdom? |
Description |
Cast metal toy soldier figure, depicting a British soldier. Perhaps made by Britains Ltd., of England. He has a black -painted "bear fur" hat. These tall fur hats are called "bearskins" (or caps) and have been used as part of ceremonial uniforms in Britain. Historically, the black bear fur for real ones was obtained from Canada. The soldier is also depicted with a scarlet tunic, blue trousers and a rifle belt. He is posed in a half-kneeling, firing position, with a rifle. |
Provenance |
Manufactured in England. The British Royal Guard historically has worn "bearskins" for their headgear. During the Second World War (1939-1945), metal toys were typically not made in factories, as metal was in short supply and production lines switched to war material. Therefore, this toy is likely either pre-war or post-war. May have belonged to Ross Kennedy, who died in 1939, during his boyhood. Last owned by his sister, Rosemary Kennedy of Owen Sound, Grey County. |
Collection |
Toys & Games, 20th-c Collection |
Material |
Metal/Lead/Paint |
Dimensions |
H-4 cm |
Found |
Owen Sound, Grey County |
People |
Kennedy, Rosemary |