13.5" Ceramic Teddy Bears (Collectables) Boy & Girl

Item Description

This is a pair of collectible ceramic teddy bear figurines, each measuring approximately 13.5" high x 11.5" long x 8" wide and weighing around 1449 grams. The bears appear to be constructed of a glazed ceramic or porcelain composite, with visible hand-painted detailing.

• Male Bear: Dressed in a painted black vest with gold buttons, a red polka-dot bowtie, and a gold pocket watch chain motif.
• Female Bear: Dressed in a red and white ruffled dress with a bow at the back and white scalloped collar trim.

Both figures feature articulated limbs connected via an internal elastic cord and metal hooks, a technique commonly seen in display dolls and collectibles rather than mass-market toys. The surface texture mimics a fur pattern, carefully etched into the ceramic and hand-painted in warm brown tones with shading.

Condition

Excellent overall:

• No visible cracks or chips to the ceramic.
• The elastic/cord joints are intact and functional.
• Slight paint wear visible on some high-touch points.
• Tags are missing, but the original string fasteners remain.

Close-up images show the internal joint assembly, indicating this is not simply a molded statue but a more complex articulated ceramic figure — further supporting its identity as a collectible, likely handcrafted or limited edition.

Material

• Primary Medium: Likely kiln-fired ceramic or porcelain.
• Surface: Hand-painted glaze.
• Joint Construction: Metal pin and elastic cord system — adds value as a functional poseable figure.

Authentication and Origin

There are no visible maker’s marks, stamps, or signatures. However, based on:

• Construction style,
• Hand-painted finish,
• Subject matter (teddy bears in Victorian-style attire),
• Articulated limbs with tension cord,

…it is plausible that these are collectible decorative pieces dating from the 1980s to early 1990s — a period when hand-painted, life-like porcelain bears were popularized by makers such as:

• Boyds Bears (Bearstone Collection)
• Avon Fine Collectibles
• House of Lloyd
• Enesco
• or even lesser-known boutique ceramics makers from the U.S. or Japan.

Because no marks are present, professional authentication would require:

• A blacklight inspection for hidden marks.
• Comparison to cataloged series from the above-mentioned collectible makers.

Market Value Estimate

Despite the missing tags, this pair of articulated ceramic bears holds appeal among collectors of nostalgic or seasonal décor. Values are influenced by the craftsmanship, condition, and rarity:

• Current Market Estimate (per pair):
  • $60 – $120 USD on resale platforms such as Etsy, eBay, or local vintage markets.

If the original maker can be identified (e.g., early Boyds or Avon limited edition), the value could increase up to:

• $150 – $200 USD, particularly around holidays when decorative collectibles are in higher demand.

Recommendations

1. Professional Appraisal:
   • If you intend to insure or resell at a higher value, consider contacting a certified decorative arts or doll appraiser. A professional can:
     • Identify the maker via ceramic composition or joint design.
     • Estimate rarity and limited edition status.
2. Preservation:
   • Due to the fragility of the material and limb joints, avoid tensioning the limbs too much.
   • Store in a padded, dry environment.
   • Consider UV-protective display if displayed near windows.

Final Notes

This pair is a charming and well-executed example of vintage decorative teddy bear figures. While they do not currently exhibit marks to conclusively identify the maker, their craftsmanship, poseable limbs, and detailed painting point to mid- to high-quality collectible production. With professional verification, their value may increase.