Clockwork toy dancing and walking bear probably made in France in the late 19th century

The bear stands on its hind legs, leaning on a walking stick. The wood and cardboard figure contains a clockwork mechanism. The bear has fur ears and a brown glass eye (the other is missing), red plush jaws and bone teeth. Nose and paws are of carved wood painted black. The right forepaw is clasped and through it moves a wooden, knob topped walking stick. It wears a brass wire muzzle to which is attached a chain and ring. A large brass key with a circular handle is inserted into the right side of the body and on the left side protrudes a metal start/stop rod. The base is formed by elongated feet with holes through which metal plates protrude. When wound up these plates emerge alternately rocking the bear from side to side to give the impression of walking.

Given by Mrs G. Courtney

Toy makers in Europe made bears in a variety of materials throughout the 19th century. Dancing bears were a popular travelling entertainment and appeared in metal, ceramic, and in card and metal covered with rabbit skin, like this bear. Not only does it look frighteningly realistic but it also moves. French toy makers in particular made many clever examples of moving animals in the 1880s and 1890s.

MISC.308-1984