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Folk Art Toys and Dolls

FOLK ART STYLE

Folk art is a genre of art that shares the creator’s traditions, offering not just an artistic display but an opportunity to learn about a culture. Antique, new and vintage folk art typically reflects a heritage or location. It can include utilitarian objects and handmade art as diverse as weather vanes, duck decoys, portraiture and paintings, carnival art and quilts.

Quilts are a quintessential part of American folk art but their roots are international, with quilting dating back to Ancient Egypt. The practice spread to Europe and was especially prominent in the Middle Ages, with one of the oldest surviving examples being the Tristan quilt made in Sicily in the 14th century. They were made as bedcovers and clothing, including as a layer for knights to wear beneath their armor. Native American folk art includes functional objects reflecting their heritage, such as baskets, textiles and wooden pieces.

Elsewhere, the vast range of work associated with Mexican folk art includes masks made by Mexican craftspeople for traditional celebrations and ceremonial dances. Mexican masks are part of the country’s folk-art traditions that go back thousands of years and play a role in festivals and theater.

Works in the folk art tradition are valuable because of the skills involved, like weaving, hand-carving wood and even stonework. Many folk artists are self-taught, while some train as apprentices within their community. By using available materials and taking a personal approach to their creations, artists ensure each piece is unique and conveys a story.

During the Great Depression, artistic materials in America were hard to come by, so artisans used discarded wood from cigar boxes and shipping crates to make highly stylized, notched pieces — most often picture frames and boxes — that are today sought after by collectors. This folk art style is called tramp art and was popular from roughly 1870 until the 1940s.

Folk art brings vibrant culture and traditions into your home. Browse an extensive collection of antique, new and vintage folk art on 1stDibs.

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Style: Folk Art
Vintage Children's Toy Savings Bank "U.S. Mail". American, Circa 1920
Located in Incline Village, NV
Children's Savings Coin Bank "U.S. Mail" bank , also known as a "still bank"; was American made, circa 1920. This is well made, sturdy, and all original. It is made of cast iron and ...
Category

Early 20th Century American Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Iron

"Kadi" Pre-war Wind-Up Toy by Lehman Company. Germany Circa 1905
Located in Incline Village, NV
"Kadi" is the name of this rare Chinese themed vintage German made mechanical toy; depicting two turn of the century Chinese men with pigtails walking along, while carrying a large t...
Category

Early 1900s German Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

Pink Pig Wicker Basket Butcher Shop Display Container, Antique, German, 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A beautiful pink pig wicker basket container. Made of wicker, paper mache and glass eyes. This was a window display to showcase the smoked sausages. It is from the 1900s - 1910s. Not...
Category

Early 20th Century German Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Metal

A Large Edwardian Rocking Horse A handsome galloper
Located in Chillerton, Isle of Wight
A Large Edwardian Rocking Horse A handsome galloper, he has the classic open mouthed expression, glass eyes and an arched neck, his bridle is a bit moth eaten Our fine animal has a ...
Category

Early 1900s Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Pine

Vintage Toy Wind-Up "Johnny" The Dancing Clown by Lindstrom Toy Co., Circa 1930
Located in Incline Village, NV
This is a hard to find pre war vintage, Made in America wind up tin toy by The Lindstrom Toy Company of Bridgeport, Connecticut, circa 1928-1932. The action is fabulous; when wound ...
Category

1930s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

Lot of Four Vintage Steiff Animals, Squirrel Camel Hamster & Giraffe, 1960s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This collection of stuffed animals includes 4 figures: 1) Miniature Steiff Squirrel (No button and flag, but cardboard label). About 3.75" high. 2) Steiff Hamster (parts of flag and...
Category

1960s German Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Mohair

"Boy Riding An Alligator" Vintage Wind-Up Toy by J. Chein Co., N.J., Circa 1935
Located in Incline Village, NV
Manufactured circa 1935 by The J. Chein Company in Harrison, New Jersey, this vintage tin toy, when wound up, depicts a young boy in islander garb, trying to ride an alligator who da...
Category

1930s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

Walt Disney Enterprises "Pinocchio" Wind-Up Toy by Marx Toy Co., N.Y. Dated 1939
Located in Incline Village, NV
Fabulous condition and in perfect working order on this "Walt Disney Enterprises" copyrighted (labeled---see image) vintage wind-up toy of the iconic Disney character "Pinocchio", da...
Category

1930s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

Vintage Toy Wind-Up Dump Truck by The Marx Toy Company, N.Y. American Circa 1930
Located in Incline Village, NV
Offered is a hard to find Marx floor toy dump truck with dual action. NOT diecast------made of all tin. Capability to raise and lower the bed is activated by rotating the attached a...
Category

1930s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

"Joe Penner" Vintage Clockwork Windup Toy by Louis Marx Co American Circa 1930's
Located in Incline Village, NV
Fabulous American vintage all tin wind-up toy with attached key and clockwork mechanism, whereby upon winding it up, the character (Joe Penner) waddles aimlessly across the floor, hat flying in the air with notorious cigar in motion (see attached video with listing). The toy is in wonderful and complete original condition with all original parts and authentic factory paint. It is often found incomplete (cigar or hat missing more often than not); and usually doesn't work properly. My example works great and is in nice bright original paint and lithography, in multiple colors of a black and white checkered suit...
Category

1930s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

"George The Drummer Boy" Tin windup Toy by Louis Marx, New York City. Circa 1930
Located in Incline Village, NV
This circa 1930 "George, Drummer Boy" brightly colored lithographed tin wind-up toy capitalizes on the popularity of marching bands, spawned from the military and World War I victory...
Category

1930s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

Collection of (3) American Eskimo Children's Toys Two of Which are Identified
Located in Chicago, IL
Collection of (3) Native American Eskimo Toys. The kayaker in the middle is signed, "Andre Boucher", who was flat-plane woodcarver – trained at Sa...
Category

1940s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Fur, Hide, Cotton, Wood

Early 20th Century English Folk Art Jigger Doll
Located in London, GB
Early 20th century English Folk Art jigger doll A wonderful example of a unique Folk Art handcrafted jigger doll we have lovingly ...
Category

1930s British Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Pine, Paint

Large French 19th Century Hand Carved Wooden Fragment of a Marionette
Located in Buisson, FR
Very nice handcarved fragment of a marionette. France, circa 1850. Weathered, small losses and old repairs Measurement include the wooden base.
Category

19th Century French Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Textile, Wood

Vintage Tin Wind-up Toy "Clown in A Barrel" by J Chein & Co. American Circa 1935
Located in Incline Village, NV
Made by J. Chein & Company Circa 1935 in New York City; originally inventoried as #258 (same number as similar looking Popeye toy dated 1932) and was named "Mechanical Clown Barrel Walker". The name of the maker "Chein" is stamped as a logo to the rear of the barrel (see image). This is one of the earlier toys that Chein made. The lithography and hand paint are in gorgeous original condition with bright colors of red and gold to the barrel, flesh tones to the clown, who sports a multi colorful smiling face. The toy works great; simply wind the attached key wind in the back 1/2 revolution; place on the hard surface----the clown waddles across the floor, back and forth, while shaking his head to and fro (see accompanying video with this listing to see it work) In addition to being quite a scarce toy it is even more difficult to find in this fine condition. Often times the head is lacking or replaced from rough usage and surface rarely maintains this beautiful finish. This particular example is completely original with no restorations, repairs, or touch up paint of any kind. There is a small 5/8" superficial indentation to the front top of barrel (see image). This would make a proud addition to any collection of vintage toys or Americana. Dimensions: 7 1/2" high x 3 1/4" wide x 4" deep See my other listings of vintage toys. Provenance: From a recently acquired West Coast collection of fine quality tin toys. Note: After 40 plus years of dealing and collecting toys, I am justly qualified to guarantee and present the authenticity of antique and vintage toys and children's playthings; important considering the fakes and reproductions in the marketplace. My toys operate properly and are as stated and accurately described. it would behoove an enterprising collector, dealer, or decorator to take advantage of the opportunity to buy as many of the vintage...
Category

1930s Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

"Dancing Dog" Vintage Windup Toy. American, Circa 1925
Located in Incline Village, NV
"Dancing Dog" is a fairly scarce toy to acquire, especially in this excellent condition and working order. Windup toy is lithographed and hand painted in colors of black and greenish grey, and the name "Spot" is printed in bold letters on the red collar. This is American made in the 1920's having been manufactured by the Lindstrom Company of Bridgeport, Connecticut; established in 1913. Markings to each side of the dog reveal its genesis; "The Lindstrom Tool and Toy Co.; Made in U.S.A." "Patent Applied For"; on the other side is "Dancing Dog". "Dancing Dog" is in excellent condition and is completely original with no repairs or repaint. It works perfectly and is quite amusing. To operate; wind up the attached key on the side, a couple of times; with front legs in the air, place down by his hind legs on a hard surface and watch "Spot" dance. He carries on for quite some time, dancing around in a circle and then side to side. (see attached video accompanying the listing). Dimensions: 5 1/4" wide x 4" high x 2 1/4" deep. Provenance: From a recently acquired discerning West Coast Collection of tin toys. See my other listings of vintage toys. Note: After 40 plus years of dealing and collecting toys, I am justly qualified to guarantee and present the authenticity of antique and vintage toys and children's playthings; important considering the fakes and reproductions in the marketplace. My toys operate properly and are as stated and accurately described. it would behoove an enterprising collector, dealer, or decorator to take advantage of the opportunity to buy as many of the vintage tin toys...
Category

1920s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

"B.O. Plenty" Vintage Wind-Up Tin Toy by Marx Original Box. American, Circa 1935
Located in Incline Village, NV
"B.O. Plenty (printed on the back) is the name of this American made tin wind-up toy; named after the classic Dick Tracy comic book and radio character of the 1930's. In his hand he is holding his daughter, Baby Sparkle. Markings include the Marx logo to the rear "Made in The United States of America" in logo as well as location of manufacture, "New York, N,Y.". Vertically in small print on back of pants "By Permission of Famous Artists Syndicated Copyright By Chicago Tribune" (see images for markings), Markings on the box contribute to validating the genesis and name of the toy, and 200 fifth Avenue, New York address of the Marx Company, which was founded in 1919. Highly lithographed (comes with the very hard to find nice condition original box as well) this example is in excellent and all original condition with no restoration or touch up of any kind.Colors include; yellow shirt and hat. blue vest, brown striped pants, white and flesh tones to face and baby. The toy features B.O. Plenty with a "wise guy" look on his face, while holding his baby. When wound up he waddles back and forth, with his hat flying up in the air and back down again (see movie attached to this listing). The toy works great! Dimensions: 8 1/2" high x 2 3/4" wide x 2 1/2" deep. Provenance: From a recently acquired West Coast collection of fine quality tin toys. See my other listings of vintage toys. Note: After 40 plus years of dealing and collecting toys, I am justly qualified to guarantee and present the authenticity of antique and vintage toys and children's playthings; important considering the fakes and reproductions in the marketplace. My toys operate properly and are as stated and accurately described. it would behoove an enterprising collector, dealer, or decorator to take advantage of the opportunity to buy as many of the vintage tin toys...
Category

1930s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

Toy Cast Iron Truck Car Carrier; Three Cars by A.C. Williams American Circa 1930
Located in Incline Village, NV
Founded in 1886, the A.C. Williams Toy Company in Ravenna, Ohio, manufactured this toy circa 1930. This cast iron truck car carrier loaded with three blue "Austin" sedans ("Austin" embossed on the side of each car) is completely original with no restoration of any kind, and is in original paint with no touch-up or repaint. I have black lighted everything to insure originality of paint. A red Mack truck hitched to a green trailer pulls the car carrier with it's three original cars; all nickel plated wheels on all vehicles are original. Other markings include #5, #11, and #1 on the inside of each car by rear axle; and #5 on the green trailer; #5 on the red truck. Wonderful piece of Americana in very nice condition; one or several of the cars usually are missing and/or typically repainted due to rough floor play. See my other listings of vintage toys. Dimensions: 12 1/2" long x 2" wide x 4 1/4" high. Each cast iron car...
Category

1920s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Iron

Lacquered iron rocket, France early 20th century
Located in Firenze, IT
Lacquered iron rocket France early 20th century Probably part of an old amusement park attraction. wooden stand included 37 cm Conditions: good overall conditions, a bit of rus...
Category

1930s French Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Iron

Lot of Five Deer & Hunter Putz Toy Antique German Erzgebirge Christmas 1880s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
Antique German set of five Putz stick-legged Deers and a Hunter. All of them are genuine antique German Christmas nativity scene figures. As they are all old, most show the expected signs of age and use. This is a fabulous set of stick-legged deers with dust covered body. The animals have a sturdy stick leg construction, with all of them having their original stick legs and have not been repaired. The Measurements given in the dimensions section refers to the Hunter figure. This extraordinary set dates from around 1880 - 1890s and was made in the Erzgebirge area (Ore Mountains) in Germany. This is a nice addition to any Christmas Decoration or just for your collection of old German toys. For explanation: Putz items, by true definition, were any figures or buildings that when displayed together, told the Biblical story of the birth of Christ. The term today is loosely used for any item that is used under a Christmas tree to create a Christmas “garden” or “yard.” Buildings, homemade or mass produced, composition figures and animals, bottle brush trees and any assortment of various accessories, possibly a toy train and usually a Nativity set at the heart of the display are just a few things that might spark one’s creativity when designing a “putz” for under the tree. Elaborate “putz” scenes reached their heights in the 1920s and 1940s. Today you will generally find them under the trees of diehard collectors of antique Christmas items...
Category

Late 19th Century German Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition

Lot of Eight Miniature Antique German Dollhouse Toys Accessories 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This rare and exquisite miniature set of 8 antique German Dollhouse Miniatures is a must-have for Dollhouse and Doll collectors and enthusiasts al...
Category

Early 1900s German Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Pewter

Stunning Austrian Christmas Paper mache Santa St.Nicholas Candy Container 1920s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This vintage St.Nicholas, Santa Claus candy container made of composition, cardboard and Papermache was made in the 20th century and is a charming addition to any Christmas collection. This original period piece was made in Austria and features a vintage finish. This Santa Claus figurine...
Category

20th Century German Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition

Lot of Five Sheep Nativity Putz Toy Antique German Erzgebirge Christmas 1880s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
Antique German set of five Putz stick-legged sheep. All of them are genuine antique German Christmas nativity scene figures. As they are all old, most show the expected signs of age and use. This is a fabulous set of stick-legged sheep with dust covered body . The sheep have a sturdy stick leg construction, with all sheep having their original stick legs and have not been repaired. They all have hand-painted composition faces. The Measurements given in the dimensions section refers to the tallest sheep. This extraordinary set dates from around 1880 and was made in the Erzgebirge area (Ore Mountains) in Germany. This is a nice addition to any Christmas Decoration or just for your collection of old German toys. For explanation: Putz items, by true definition, were any figures or buildings that when displayed together, told the Biblical story of the birth of Christ. The term today is loosely used for any item that is used under a Christmas tree to create a Christmas “garden” or “yard.” Buildings, homemade or mass produced, composition figures and animals, bottle brush trees and any assortment of various accessories, possibly a toy train and usually a Nativity set at the heart of the display are just a few things that might spark one’s creativity when designing a “putz” for under the tree. Elaborate “putz” scenes reached their heights in the 1920s and 1940s. Today you will generally find them under the trees of diehard collectors of antique Christmas items...
Category

Late 19th Century German Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition

Antique Miniature German Boule Biedermeier Dollhouse Secretary Desk, 1860-1890s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This rare and exquisite miniature antique German wooden Boule Secretary Desk with fine golden transfers, dated about 1860s to 1890s. Made by one of the famous German toy...
Category

1890s German Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Wood

2 Miniature Picture Frames Erhard & Söhne Antique German Dollhouse Toy 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This rare Set of two Pictures framed in Gold plated ormulu frames is a must-have for Dollhouse and Doll collectors and enthusiasts alike. With its beautiful intricate design, it is suitable for any room and adds a touch of elegance to your Dollhouse. You will get 2 Erhard and Söhne Frames and one framed pictures with a landscape to place it in your dollhouse. Made of high-quality gold-plated metal and handmade by skilled craftsmen, this original piece is a testament to the rich history of German toys. Whether you're a fan of entertainment or vintage items, this Erhard & Söhne dollhouse toy...
Category

Early 1900s German Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Metal, Gold Plate

Beaded Ndebele Initiation Doll
Located in Chicago, IL
A rare imported commodity, glass beads have been a symbol of wealth and importance in south African cultures for centuries, and were exclusively distributed by the region's oba (king...
Category

Mid-20th Century South African Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Fabric, Cotton, Wood

Beaded Ndebele Initiation Doll
Located in Chicago, IL
A rare imported commodity, glass beads have been a symbol of wealth and importance in south African cultures for centuries, and were exclusively distributed by the region's oba (king...
Category

Mid-20th Century South African Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Fabric, Cotton, Wood

Beaded Ndebele Ceremonial Doll
Located in Chicago, IL
A rare imported commodity, glass beads have been a symbol of wealth and importance in south African cultures for centuries, and were exclusively distributed by the region's oba (king...
Category

Mid-20th Century South African Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Fabric, Cotton, Wood

Girl in beautiful Dress, Antique German Dollhouse Doll Toy 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This rare and exquisite miniature antique German Bisque Head, Arms and Leg Doll is a must-have for Dollhouse and Doll collectors and enthusiasts alike. With its beautiful Outfit, it is suitable for any room and adds a touch of elegance to your Dollhouse. The set includes The Doll with the Outfit, all in very good condition. Made of Fabric, Bisque Porcelain parts and handmade by skilled craftsmen, this original piece is a testament to the rich history of German toys. Whether you're a fan of entertainment or vintage items, this dollhouse toy...
Category

Early 1900s German Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Porcelain, Fabric

Lavishly-Filled German Wooden Grocery Dollhouse Store Toy 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A beautiful grocery shop room box, painted and stained wood with lithographed wall and floor papers, side stair case and upper gallery, some drawers on rear w...
Category

Early 1900s German Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Porcelain, Fabric, Wood

Krampus Companion of Belsnickle Figure Austria & German Christmas Vintage
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This unique Christmas figurine from Austria features a handmade figurine of the Christmas character Krampus, Belsnickle's companion. The vintage pi...
Category

20th Century Austrian Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition

Beaded Ndebele Initiation Doll
Located in Chicago, IL
A rare imported commodity, glass beads have been a symbol of wealth and importance in south African cultures for centuries, and were exclusively distributed by the region's oba (king...
Category

Mid-20th Century South African Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Fabric, Cotton, Wood

Boy dressed in Sailor Outfit Antique German Dollhouse Doll Toy 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This rare and exquisite miniature antique German Bisque Head, Arms and Leg Doll is a must-have for Dollhouse and Doll collectors and enthusiasts alike. With its beautiful Sailers Outfit, it is suitable for any room and adds a touch of elegance to your Dollhouse. The set includes The Doll with the Outfit, all in very good condition. Made of Fabric, Bisque Porcelain parts and handmade by skilled craftsmen, this original piece is a testament to the rich history of German toys. Whether you're a fan of entertainment or vintage items, this dollhouse toy...
Category

Early 1900s German Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Porcelain, Fabric

Set of 2 Antique Miniature German Boule Biedermeier Dollhouse Chairs, 1860-1890s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This rare and exquisite miniature antique German wooden Boule set of Chairs with fine golden transfers, dated about 1860s to 1890s. Made by one of the famous German toy...
Category

1890s German Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Wood

20th Century Erzgebirge German Noah’s Ark Putz Toy Set, Vintage Folk Art
Located in Nuernberg, DE
20th century Erzgebirge German Noah’s Ark. A wonderful example of a 20th century Erzgebirge German Noah’s Ark, With 36 assorted hand carved figures. Typically, children played with t...
Category

20th Century German Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Wood

Popeye rare cloth rag doll, 1950s
Located in Firenze, IT
Popeye rare cloth rag doll USA 1950s Cloth, sponge, plastic pipe H 100 cm - 56 x 30 cm Conditions: overall good conditions consistent with age and use
Category

1950s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Fabric

Shepherd & Wooly Sheep Putz Toy Set Antique German Christmas 1900s, original Box
Located in Nuernberg, DE
Antique German set of eleven Putz stick-legged sheep with a shepherd boy and his dog. All of them are genuine antique German Christmas nativit...
Category

Early 1900s Austrian Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition

Miniature Flower Stand Basket Erhard & Söhne Antique German Dollhouse Toy 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This rare and exquisite miniature antique German Flower Stand Basket is a must-have for Dollhouse and Doll collectors and enthusiasts alike. With its beautiful intricate design, it is suitable for any room and adds a touch of elegance to your Dollhouse. The set includes also a bouquet of flowers and the stand, all in very good condition. Made of high-quality gold-plated metal and handmade by skilled craftsmen, this original piece is a testament to the rich history of German toys. Whether you're a fan of entertainment or vintage items, this Erhard & Söhne dollhouse toy...
Category

Early 1900s German Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Metal, Gold Plate

Stunning Large Santa Claus Belsnickle Candy Container German Christmas, Vintage
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This vintage Belsnickle Santa Claus candy container made of composition, cardboard and wood was made in the 20th century and is a charming addition ...
Category

20th Century German Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition

Antique Dollhouse Biedermeier Boule Furniture Sofa, German 1860s - 1890s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This rare and exquisite miniature antique German wooden Boulle sofa with original velvet upholstery and fine golden transfers, dated about 1890. Made by one the famous German toy...
Category

1890s German Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Fabric, Velvet, Wood

Miniature Corner Shelf Erhard & Söhne Antique German Dollhouse Toy 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This rare and exquisite miniature antique German corner shelf is a must-have for Dollhouse and Doll collectors and enthusiasts alike. With its beau...
Category

Early 1900s German Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Metal, Gold Plate

Miniature Bimini Glass Antique German Hand-blown Decanter Set for Dollhouse
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This rare and exquisite miniature antique German Bimini decanter set is a must-have for Dollhouse and Doll collectors and enthusiasts alike. With its b...
Category

Early 1900s German Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Glass

18th Century Naples Italy nativity figure
Located in London, GB
18th Century Naples, Italy nativity figure A larger than normal late 18th Century Italian nativity figure. Hand carved articulated pine joint limbs,...
Category

18th Century Italian Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Pine

(4) Early Vintage All Original Toy Cars. Porsche, Limo, Lehman Sedan, Race Car
Located in Incline Village, NV
All four toys cars are being sold for one price; as a lot. Please see descriptions below. Videos available on request (they display operation). 1) Early Vintage Chein Company All Tin Toy Wind-Up Limousine, American, Circa 1930 This is one of the earlier, New York City based, J. Chein Company, tin toy pieces. They started doing lithography in 1930. This toy wind-up sedan was made circa 1930 and is brightly lithographed and painted in red and yellow, with grey and red balloon wheels. All tin, this car is quite scarce and well proportioned and stream lined with a visor over the windshield, a fancy checkered, red and yellow running board, and three cut out windows to each side of the car; very luxurious and cool looking. Markings consist of "N.J.-44"; the word "Stop" in a logo of some kind; and Chein logo attesting to "Made in U.S.A." manufacture. (see image). Also "marked" and of note are the tires "Chein Balloon Cord" "U.S.A." and "33 x 6 00.6 Ply" Car is from my own collection and is in very good and all original condition with no touch-up paint or repaint, and no restoration of any kind; fabulous colors and presence. The car works fine; see video for operation of the limousine (on request).. Dimensions: 7 1/4" long x 3 1/2" wide x 3" high 2) Rare 911 Porsche Friction Tin Toy by Bandai Toy Co. Made in Japan Circa 1960's Offered here is a whitish/cream colored friction tin toy 911 Porsche circa 1960's, marked at the bottom; "Porsche" in addition to the Bandai Toy Company logo embossed, along with "Made in Japan" designation being noted. The Bandai Toy Company is a post war toy company established in Taito, Japan circa 1950 and is still conducting business today, albeit, it has shifted from toy manufacturing to video toy accessories. This is a very rare toy and is coveted by collectors of both toys and fast cars. Except for the odd and minor scratch here and there, the toy is in very nice, all original condition with absolutely no restoration or touch up to the paint or mechanism (see images). The action and friction functionality works well (see video on request). Motor and engine mechanics and nomenclature are colorfully displayed through the plastic rear trunk window (see image); while the colorful interior can be seen through the side window. Car is all tin, with rubber tires and plastic windows. Dimensions: 10 1/4" long x 4" wide x 3 1/4" high. Note that this toy doesn't become available very often and the few that have turned up in recent years , don't work. 3) Vintage Free Wheeling Green Lithographed All Tin Racing Car. French, Circa 1930 Circa 1930's free wheeling green lithographed all tin racing car, with attached pressed steel driver; it is probably of French manufacturer (the only time I have seen for sale was from a French toy dealer). This scarce toy has markings resembling early racing cars with the streamlined style graphics in yellow and green; standard grill; exhaust four manifolds to each side, and a spare tire attached to the rear; looks like an early Le Mans type car with the spare (see images). Other markings include the number "3:" on each side; "510 x 1" on the rear tire"; and probably the makers mark and logo, which I can't identify, on the top right behind the driver (see images). Not being a wind-up or a friction toy, this racing car was pushed across the floor by hand or/and used as an accessory in a toy train layout setup. The car is in excellent and all original condition (remarkable for a nearly 100 year old floor toy), with no dents, no touch-up paint and absolutely no restoration.. Provenance: From my own collection of toys and banks, having been purchased 33 years ago in 1990. Dimensions: 8 1/4" long x 2 1/2" wide x 2 1/2" high 4) Lehman Auto "Ito" Sedan, Germany, circa 1913 This hand-painted German tin toy was manufactured by the "Lehman Toy Company" in Brandenburg, Germany beginning in 1913. It was made for a number of years after that, enjoying about a 20 year run. Entitled "Ito" it operates by winding up the attached key wind mechanism, placing it on the floor, and watching it go. The car is in very good all original condition with no repairs and no repaint. It runs well. There are a number of markings on the car including "Lehman" with the corresponding logo and the number 679 on the rear. The side of the has the patent information "Pat'd 12 May 1903; 13 Sept. 1904; and U.S.A. 2 Dec. 1913". Hand-painted nicely in red and black with black and gold trim; the hand-painted driver is in blue with flesh tones to the face. Dimensions: 7" long x 3" wide x 3 1/2" high. Note: After 40 plus years of dealing and collecting toys, I am justly qualified to guarantee and present the authenticity of antique and vintage toys and banks; important considering the fakes and reproductions in the marketplace it would behoove an enterprising collector, dealer, or decorator to take advantage of the opportunity to buy as many of the vintage tin...
Category

Early 20th Century Unknown Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

Antique Miniature German Boule Biedermeier Dollhouse Bed Room Furniture 1860-90s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This rare and exquisite miniature antique German wooden Boule Bedroom Furniture set with fine golden transfers, dated about 1860s to 1890s. Made by one of the famous German toy companies. A very lovely Furniture set for antique dolls and for dollhouses. Measurements given in dimensions section refers to the bed. The small Vanity desk...
Category

1890s German Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Wood

Handmade Rajasthani Kathputli Dancing Puppet Couple Jaipur India 1950s
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Large pair of vintage 1950s string marionettes, these magnificent Rajasthani Kathputli puppets came from the vibrant state of Rajasthan in northwestern India. Meticulously handcrafte...
Category

Mid-20th Century Indian Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Textile, Silk, Wood

Antique Paper Mache Doll, France, 1930s
Located in Antwerp, BE
Antique paper mache doll circa 1930s. A French antique doll made of hand-painted papier-mâché with stone hands. Beautiful painted eyes, eye...
Category

Mid-20th Century French Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Paper

German Tinplate Clockwork Wind Up Toy by the Lehman Co. "Balky Mule" Circa 1909
Located in Incline Village, NV
Perhaps the wildest action of all the Lehman toys, said to resemble Ernest Paul Lehman's temperament (founder of the company), "Balky Mule" was first manufactured in 1897 in Berlin (Brandenburg), and had a multi decade run; this example is from around 1909 (see image with markings to the rear of the carriage). The toy is catalogued as "EPL #425" and documented on page 59 and 60 of the book "Lehman Toys" by Jurgen & Marianne Cieslik, published in 1982. To operate the toy; wind up the attached clockwork key on the underneath of the carriage and place the toy on the floor. Do not over-wind and be gentle, as the toy is aggressive and over 100 years old. The toy will go backwards and forward, and the clown will pop up and down as the cart goes in several different directions across the floor until it winds down (see video accompanying the listing for guidance). The toy is found broken and/or inoperable, more often than not, because of the rough action, and typical abuse by children (after all, it was a toy). This example is in very nice original condition and works well. The lithography and hand paint is bright and original with no touch up or repaint. The hand paint is; flesh tones to the face of the clown, red trousers, orange hair, and grey paint to the seat of the carriage. The clothing to the clown figure is still intact and all original. The lithography to the wheels features brightly colored clowns and a German marking logo. What is really unusual is the fact that the donkey still has all four of its loosely attached original legs, considering the aggressive action of the toy. The metal on the donkey is actually treated with "fabric like" paint, to simulate fur. All in all this is a really cool toy and a "must have" for the collector of tin toys, or someone who simply wants a wonderful example of an early, "turn of the century" iconic wind up toy. Provenance: Recently acquired from a prominent toy collection in Los Angeles, California Dimensions: 7 1/2" long x 3" wide x 5" high Note: After 40 plus years of dealing and collecting toys, I am justly qualified to guarantee and present the authenticity of antique and vintage toys and children's playthings; important considering the fakes and reproductions in the marketplace it would behoove an enterprising collector, dealer, or decorator to take advantage of the opportunity to buy as many of the vintage tin...
Category

Early 1900s German Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

Vintage Tin Wind-up Toy "Doughboy" by J.Chein Company. American Circa 1930
Located in Incline Village, NV
Of American manufacture, by the J. Chein Toy Company in New York City; this early 1930's vintage tin toy depicts a World War I "Doughboy" or American infantryman wearing his back pack and green "fatigues", and when wound up and released on the floor, he walks along (more like waddles along) in a "happy go lucky" manner ------works great! (see attached video). The toy is in excellent and completely all original condition with no restoration and no touch up paint. The lithography and paint is bright and shows little wear except for a couple of superficial scratches on the back (see images). Dimensions: 6" high x 2 3/4" wide x 2 3/4" deep. Provenance: From a recently acquired prominent collection of vintage tin...
Category

1930s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

Vintage Wind Up Tin Toy "Monkey Riding A Horse" by Haji Co., Japan, Circa 1958
Located in Incline Village, NV
Made in Tokyo, Japan by The Haji Company (see image for mark/logo), this all tin vintage wind up toy, circa 1958, depicts a "Monkey Riding A Horse". It ...
Category

1950s Japanese Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

Vintage Tin Wind Up Toy "Boy Skier" by J. Chein & Co. American Circa 1950
Located in Incline Village, NV
Very nice condition all tin, vintage wind up toy by J. Chein Company, New York City, circa 1950, "Boy Skier"; in all original paint and lithography; in ...
Category

1950s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

19th Century Romanian Polychrome Wooden Rocking Horse
Located in Rio Vista, CA
Charming 19th century Romanian hand carved wooden rocking horse. Featuring a colorful polychrome finish on a base decorated with a floral m...
Category

19th Century Romanian Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Wood, Lacquer

San Francisco Trolley Toy Friction Car. Japan, circa 1950s
Located in Incline Village, NV
San Francisco trolley toy Friction cable car; made of all tin; important to note because this was the first of it's kind having been made in the 1950s. They were all tin (no plastic); 7 1/4" long (not shorter); green (not red or multi-clored); "Bay and Taylor St" placard; #504" and most importantly the figures are actual FIGURES made of formed pressed steel and then hand painted and lithographed. Cheaper later models were simply lithographed into the flat sheet steel. Also, my example works (see video). It is a friction toy...
Category

Mid-20th Century Japanese Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

Collection of Three Pig in Pot Lucky Charm Figurines Antique German 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A beautiful collection of golden pig lucky charm figurines. Made from china porcelain. Such items are given away as good luck charms on New Year's Eve. Nice...
Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition, Metal

Pig & Chimney Sweep Lucky Charm, Candy Secret Chamber Container, Antique, 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A beautiful golden pig candy container or container with secret chamber. Made from white metal, hand painted with cold paint like the bronze Vienna minia...
Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Metal

Marx "Wonder Cyclist" American Circa 1930
Located in Incline Village, NV
Marx "Wonder Cyclist" is the earlier version of this wind-up "Boy on a Tricycle" toy; and not to be confused with the later version by Unique Art called "Kiddy Cyclist". This toy featured is MUCH more rare and more sought after by collectors of early tin wind up toys...
Category

1830s American Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Metal

19th Century Child's Platform Rocking Horse "Glider". American. Circa 1875
Located in Incline Village, NV
Of American manufacture, circa 1875, this authentic children's platform rocking horse "glider" is hand carved of hard wood, and has a hand craft...
Category

1870s American Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Wood, Leather

Vintage Child's Toy Tin Large Spinning Top by Chein Company, American, Ca. 1950
Located in Incline Village, NV
Highly colorful and completely operational hard to find LARGE tin child's toy spinning top made by the J. Chein Company, Harrison, New Jersey, Circa 1950. It works great and is in co...
Category

1950s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

Folk Art toys and dolls for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique folk art toys and dolls for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the Mid-20th Century, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage toys and dolls created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include more furniture and collectibles, decorative objects, folk art and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with wood, metal and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Folk Art toys and dolls made in a specific country, there are Europe, North America, and United States pieces for sale on 1stDibs. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee. Prices for toys and dolls differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $475 and tops out at $2,800 while the average work can sell for $1,388.

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