Wednesday, April 15, 2020

Please meet Bailey, an antique 1950s English(?) Teddy bear

Please meet Bailey, a 1950s antique Teddy bear.    Based on his short arms and his pointed feet, I believe he's English, but he's not exactly the chatty type of bear, so he's not saying.  He has had some loss to his mohair, and his face is an odd golden color, which probably is a result of his face being against a piece of metal for an extended period.  He has a mild attic smell to him, but it's not offensive.   He's had repairs made to him by others, over his right eye and by his right cheek, but it's hard to notice.   His paw pads are corduroy, and he wears an old red ribbon with a bell.   His head is stuffed with straw, but his body is a softer material.   He's about 14 inches tall and in relatively very good condition for his age.    

The first thing you notice about Bailey is the heavy discoloration to his face, a weird orangy color.   When his childhood friend and owner Miles moved out of the family home to start a new life abroad, he was stored in a large steamer trunk in the attic with other toys.   He was a mite disappointed, but he couldn't say he was surprised.   He saw it happen to other toys over the years.   At least he didn't end up in the dustbin.   There were nice wool blankets to keep him warm, but he was placed facedown over a little collection of steel army men and his forehead and cheeks changed color with time.    

When Miles returned to England, Bailey was taken out of the trunk and given a huge hug, and a new ribbon and bell was placed around his neck.   It had been a long time, and Bailey was very excited to see his old friend.   That night, he proudly sat on top of a chest of drawers, and the next morning, Miles placed him in the front seat of his automobile as they drove down the high street on the way to a special local shop in the village.   They were headed to Clare's Bear Care Repair for a consultation on Bailey's condition.

"I've given him a good stare, and I have an opinion to share," said Clare.  "I'll be fair and square.  I dare say this bear has much wear and tear, but don't despair!  I swear there's rare mohair here from Weston-On-Mare somewhere.  Put him there on that chair, and under my care, he'll soon be a debonair bear.  Are you prepared for his repair?  Do you need some fresh air?"

"Thank you for your thoughts," Miles responded.  "This is quite overwhelming.  Let me think about it, and I'll be in touch."

"That's fair.  Take care," said Clare.

"She's full of hot air," Miles whispered to Bailey.   "I like you just as you are, orange face and all."

Bailey giggled.   "Now, given the current state of affairs, if you dare, how about we share eclairs at the Apple & Pear.   Is that fair?"

"Yes, Bailey," Miles answered, "For you, I have plenty of time to spare." 




                    

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