Edward is a charming, wistful old bear, in a much-loved condition, yet retains his original features and dates to c.1918. He’s quite a big boy, measuring 50cm (20″) tall, and might be French or American.

Woodwool-stuffed, Edward is a lovey long bodied ted, with equally long legs and a pair of good-sized feet. Along with his ankles, they seem to have suffered the most wear, being a little threadbare with holes exposing his filling, as well as a small patch to his right ankle, with a larger one to his heel. The back of his right paw has also worn into a hole.

Amazingly Edward’s cloth pads are intact and in reasonably good condition. There’s a couple of other small repairs to his upper back and shoulder, and stitching around his left arm disc joint. On the whole though, he’s a good sturdy character, with shoe button eyes, and embroidered nose stitching, now missing a few threads, while his mouth has long gone.

Edward’s joints work fine and, even though he only has a sprinkling of bright gold mohair remaining, he’s dressed in a beautiful antique Edwardian fine-ribbed jacket. This has three back slits, and is lavishly decorated with crewel-work down the front, and at the cuffs. It also has two patch pockets, and fastens with eight pearly buttons. To complete his ensemble, Edward wears a pair of pink mittens to protect his paws, while knitted booties keep his feet and ankles toasty, with a scarf for added warmth.