TOYS: A LARGE PLUSH BEAR ON WHEELS, EARLY 20TH CENTURY, PROBABLY GERMAN, in the manner of Steiff, wearing a leather collar and chain with steel links, on a base with three wheels, one missing

50cm high x 70cm wide x 23cm deep

PROVENANCE: PROPERTY OF A LOCAL CHISWICK RESIDENT, PEGGY COOPER (1931 - 2021).

Yorkshire born Peggy attained her Diploma in Design at the City of Leeds College of Art in 1952 before taking up a position as an art and needlework teacher at a school in Uttoxeter, Derbyshire. During this time Peggy's interest in developing the use of crafts for education began, with a particular focus on experimenting with repurposed and requisitioned materials for model making and other artistic projects. She was known for her kind and gentle nature with children, cleverly incorporating her artistic talents to help them understand educational topics.

She went on to marry Alan Cooper, lead member of the famous Jazz band Temperance Seven, whereupon they moved to London in the early 1960’s. Whilst in London, Peggy developed an interest in antiques and opened a stall in Portabello Road, primarily dealing in dolls and toys. She continued her art and creative interests from her home in Chiswick, which became known locally as 'The Museum' for its authentic Victorian interior and meticulously detailed displays and ornamentation.

Dimensions: 50cm high x 70cm wide x 23cm deep