An interesting note from Lizzie, regarding the Clown Motif found in Teddy Bears:

"I found some info on the teddy clowns. Here's what Gustav Severin from Teddy Bear A Loving History of the Classic Childhood Companion says: "Degraded in past centuries to the status of a clown and displayed at he weekly market, many animals like this bear and his fellow victims - the dog and the little monkey - were doomed to lead a sad and undignified life. This painting records a typical market scene from the 1870s when bear-baiting and other animal spectacles were popular  entertainment's." (end)

" The painting shows a bear on his hind legs with a muzzle and leash attached to the muzzle. Now I understand why some old Steiff bears come with a muzzle. What a sad and thankfully outdated tradition. I think that Teddy Clowns are designed to elevate this their former status and  serve to honor these great beasts, don't you?"

THANKS for sharing, Lizzie. Very informative!

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