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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
Wooden Hand Crafted Trench Folk Art Toy Castle Medieval Knight, German, 1910s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
Offered is an absolutely stunning toy castle, it is a beautiful example of early 20th century trench folk art, German handmade craft. The architectural detailing in the crenellated t...
Category

Early 20th Century German Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Wood

Soldier on Horse Pull Toy Vintage Folk Art Ore Mountains, German, 1950s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This old hand carved wooden Soldier and horse on wooden wheels Toy, was made in the Ore Mountains (Erzgebirge) in Germany. It remains fully functional. Crafted in Germany during the ...
Category

1950s German Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Wood

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

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

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

Antique German Paper Mache Bobble Head Mule Donkey Pull Cart Toy
Located in Dayton, OH
Rare antique German paper mache composition bobble head mule / donkey / horse pull toy figure standing with a small feed manger on a platform rollin...
Category

Early 20th Century Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Hardwood, Paper

Set of 5 Handpainted Swedish Traditional Dala Horse Toys
Located in Barcelona, ES
Set of 5 Handpainted Swedish Traditional Dala Horse Toys – Designed by Nils Olsson, Sweden, Circa 1960 Experience the timeless charm of Sweden with this set of five handpainted trad...
Category

1960s Swedish Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Wood

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

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

1920's German Airplane Penny Toy by Kellerman (Mounted on Marx "Lucky Stunt")
Located in Incline Village, NV
Great item for toy collectors and those who collect aeronautical items. Being offered is a very rare German Penny Toy from the 1920’s, manufactured by the well known, and quality toy...
Category

1920s German Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

Beautiful Santa Claus Figure Vintage German Christmas
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A rare "walking" Santa figure with a tree in his hand. Nice beard and moveable arms. Glitter on the ground symbolized the snow. Velvet clothing. Not a ...
Category

1930s German Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition

Vintage Toy Wind-Up "Baby L" Speedboat by Lindstrom Toy Co., American Circa 1933
Located in Incline Village, NV
Vintage toy speed boat manufactured by the Lindstrom Toy Company of Bridgeport Connecticut, circa 1933 or earlier; the Lindstrom company having been founded in 1913, made quality tin...
Category

1930s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

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

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

"Billiken" Cast Iron Still Bank, American, Circa 1909
Located in Incline Village, NV
Original "Billiken" cast iron still bank patented in 1908 by Florence Pretz (patent number on the back in raised letters "NO39BO3". It was manufa...
Category

Early 1900s American Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Iron

Early 20th Century Toy Noah's Ark, German
Located in Incline Village, NV
Toy Noah’s Arks for children to play with were very popular in the late 19th and early 20th century, and Germany was very prolific in their production. This particular ark is all ori...
Category

Early 20th Century German Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

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

Early Vintage Chein Company All Tin Toy Wind-Up Limousine, American, Circa 1930
Located in Incline Village, NV
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 ...
Category

1930s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

Wooly Sheep Pull Putz Toy Antique German Christmas 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
Antique German Putz stick-legged sheep on a wooden platform with metal wheels. It is a genuine antique German Christmas toy. As it is old, it show the e...
Category

Early 1900s German Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition

Antique Child's Pedal Toy Car
Located in Oakville, CT
American vintage, antique child's pedal tricycle metal toy car in great working condition.
Category

20th Century American Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Metal

Collection of Pig & Chimney Sweep Lucky Charm Figurines, Antique Austria, 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A beautiful collection of golden rabbit, pig and Chimney Sweep lucky charm figurines. Made from white metal, pewter or composition (putz) and hand painte...
Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition, Metal

"Cat Boat" Mechanical Toy Penny Bank, American, circa 1968
By Utexiqual Products
Located in Incline Village, NV
In near mint and all original condition this vintage mechanical bank appeals to both sailing enthusiasts and bank collectors; perhaps a collector of "cat" memorabelia as well. The theme depicts two sailors riding their boat in full sail. It is quite substantial in both size and weight. To operate, (with the lever pushed all the way in from the left); place a coin vertically above the left arm of the sailor in red; from the right; push the lever all the way in. The sail and Boom hits the sailor, knocking him over as the coin drops into the bank. The other sailor moves forward while manning the tiller. The bank is named "Cat Boat...
Category

1960s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Aluminum, Iron, Tin

Pair of Reindeer Antique Still Banks, American, circa 1910
Located in Incline Village, NV
These two authentic cast iron antique still banks depict a large reindeer and a smaller one standing nearby. Together, they make a wonderful Christ...
Category

1910s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Iron

Beautiful Santa Claus Figure Candy Container Vintage German Christmas
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A rare Santa figure with a tree in his hand. Very characterful representation and expressive in its appearance. Velvet dust cover as clothing. Was probably a candy container, but the...
Category

1930s German Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition

Germany vintage Hausser Children's Tricycle 1950s / 60s - Old toy - Collectible
Located in Nuernberg, DE
Hausser Toy Company (also known from the Elastolin Figures) Germany blue red and beige children's tricycle, in iron, sheet metal and tubes - This tricycle has small rotating pedals o...
Category

1950s German Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Metal

Lot of Deer, Rabbit & Hunter Putz Toy Antique German Erzgebirge Christmas 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
Antique German set of 14 Putz stick-legged Deers, Bunny Rabbits, Fox and a Hunter. All of them are genuine antique German Christmas nativity scene or paradise yard garden...
Category

Early 20th Century German Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition

Set of 4 Swedish Folk Wooden Dala Horse Toys, circa 1960
Located in Barcelona, ES
Set of 4 hand-painted Swedish wooden traditional Dala horse toy. Designed by Nils Olsson in Sweden, circa 1960. Materials: Wood In original condition, with minor wear consist...
Category

1960s Swedish Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Wood

Stunning Santa Claus Belsnickel Candy Container, Antique German Christmas 1910s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This antique Santa Claus candy container made of Paper mache, composition, cardboard, felting, goose feather tree and a bunny fur beard was made in...
Category

1910s German Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition

Large Devil or Krampus Marionette by a Master Puppet Maker, Antique Austria
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This is a wonderful depiction of Krampus or the devil puppet. The item is approximately 32 inches tall and has a skeleton, arms and legs made of wood. Height was measured from foot t...
Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition, Metal, Brass

Antique American Primitive Handmade Gliding Rocking Hobby Horse
Located in LOS ANGELES, CA
Antique American primitive handmade gliding rocking hobby horse Additional information: Materials: Iron, Leather, Wood Color: Antique White Period: 19th Century Styles: Ameri...
Category

19th Century Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Iron

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

"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

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

"Lamb" Cast Iron Still Bank, American, Circa 1970
Located in Incline Village, NV
"Lamb" cast Iron still bank is a re-issue of a bank made in 1928. It was made by The John Wright Company in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania in 1970. They...
Category

1970s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Iron

Rare 911 Porsche Friction Tin Toy by Bandai Toy Co. Made in Japan Circa 1960's
Located in Incline Village, NV
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). 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. Priced competitively; note that this toy doesn't become available very often and the few that have turned up in recent years , don't work and are several hundred dollars more than mine. 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; important considering 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

1960s Japanese Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

Krampus Companion of Belsnickel Devil Candy Container Antique Austria 1940s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This unique Christmas figurine from Austria features a handmade figurine of the Christmas character Krampus, Belsnickel's companion. The vintage piece dates from the 1940s or older a...
Category

20th Century Austrian Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition

Antique German Christmas Scene Doll in Sled, with Music Box, 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This beautiful Bisque Head doll, with a smaller baby doll, is seated in a metal sled. The doll has brown glass eyes, blonde hair and teeth. The coat is made of pressed cotton. The sl...
Category

Early 20th Century German Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Metal

1930s Hallloween Papier Mache Black Cat Candy Box Rare American Mid-Century
Located in Hyattsville, MD
Early 20th century polychrome painted Papier-mache Halloween Candy Box, with painted Black Cat on lid. Overall W 14.25 x D 8 x H 19 in Box W 10.25 x D 7.5 x H 5.75 in
Category

1930s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Paper

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

Pink Pig Lucky Charm Mohair Composition Candy Container, Antique, Austria, 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A beautiful pink pig candy container. Made of paper mache, covered with mohair and has glass eyes. Nice addition to your Christmas or new years collection or decoration. It is from t...
Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition

Fox Terrier Mohair Composition Candy Container by Suchard Company, German, 1930s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A beautiful dog candy container. Made of paper mache, covered with mohair and has glass eyes. Nice addition to your Christmas or new years collection or decoration. It is from the 19...
Category

1930s German Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition

Vintage Marx Fire Chief Friction Action Toy Sedan American, Circa 1930
Located in Incline Village, NV
This original vintage friction activated toy sedan" Fire Chief" Car by The Marx Toy Company, circa 1930, is a difficult toy to find, especially in this variation, which I have not se...
Category

1930s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin, Steel

Set of 5 Swedish Folk Wooden Dala Horse Toys, circa 1960
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Set of 5 handpainted Swedish wooden traditional Dala horse toy. Designed by Nils Olsson in Sweden, circa 1960. Materials: Wood In original condition, with...
Category

1960s Swedish Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Wood

Antique German Folk Art Spun Cotton Wool Santa Claus Ornament Doll Figurine
Located in Dayton, OH
Large antique German spun cotton wool Santa Claus Christmas ornament doll with hand painted composition face. Measure: 9".
Category

Early 20th Century Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Ceramic, Wool, Cotton

Swedish Folk Wooden Dala Pig Toy, circa 1960
Located in Barcelona, ES
Handpainted Swedish wooden traditional Dala pig toy. Designed by Nils Olsson in Sweden, circa 1960. Materials: Wood In original condition, with minor wear consistent with age...
Category

1960s Swedish Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Wood

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

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

"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

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 Nuremberg Gingerbread Candy Container, Antique German Christmas 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
Amazing and rare round shaped box, hand crafted in cardboard dating from the 1910s or older. The top of the box shows i view of the Nuremberg Castle in 3d optic. This antique box is ...
Category

1910s German Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition

Five Mechanical Bank Trade Cards in Frame, circa 1880s
Located in Incline Village, NV
Five mechanical bank trade cards are displayed in two separate frames. In one frame are three polychrome trade cards, which the salesmen typically carrie...
Category

19th Century American Antique Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Paper

Krampus Companion of Belsnickel Devil Candy Container Figure Antique Austria
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This unique Christmas figurine Candy Container from Austria features a handmade figurine of the Christmas character Krampus, Belsnickel's companion. The vintage piece dates from the ...
Category

20th Century Austrian Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition

Stunning Large Santa Claus Belsnickel 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

Vintage French Toy "Les Acrobates", circa 1920
By G. Doloy
Located in Incline Village, NV
Rare 100 year old French toy in it's original box depicting two acrobats attached to a wire frame with brown barrel weights, cascading down a green metal ladder. Once assembled (loop...
Category

1920s French Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

1920s Harold Lloyd Litho Tin Toy
Located in Peekskill, NY
This rare pre- WW II German made tin toy is seldom seen. Lloyd, Harold (Clayton) (1893–1971), U.S. movie comedian. Performing his own hair-raising stunts, ...
Category

1930s American Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

Stunning Christmas Vintage St. Nikolaus Santa Claus Belsnickel Candy Container
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This vintage St.Nicholas, Santa Claus candy container made of composition, cardboard, felting and Papermache was made in the 20th century and is a charming addition to any Christmas ...
Category

20th Century German Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Composition

(Ten) Assorted Metal Still Coin Banks; Circa 1950's-'70's
Located in Incline Village, NV
Nine out of these ten banks are of American manufacture, made between the 1950's and the 1970's, while one (the Well's Fargo Stage Coach) was made in China, circa 1990's. Banthrico, Incorporated (Chicago) made four of these banks, while similar type companies made the other six. They manufactured coin savings banks for banking institutions who used them as premiums to those who opened up a savings account. In the case of young children they were given to them to encourage thrift and savings. These (10) banks are a representation of that era 1950 to early 1970's, encompassing enticing savings themes. They were always made of white metal, and typically plated; usually in a copper finish. All of the banks listed below are pictured front, back, and bottom. Four of the banks lack the coin holding trap, which is quite common, as it was typical for children to toss them or lose them eventually upon removing the money from the bank. 1) "Pirate Bank" Circa 1950's; depicts a pirate sitting on top of a treasure chest with a parrot on his shoulder, protecting his booty. Typical original copper finish in white metal; measures 5 1/2" high x 4 1/2" wide x 3 1/2" deep. Copyright marking to the rear "55" , perhaps 1955. Has the coin trap holder but lacks the circular coin trap. Very good condition. Referenced #335 "The Penny Bank Book" by Andy Moore (published 1984)( 2) "Eagle on Cliff" Made by Banthrico Incorporated and dated 1976 (Americana Bicentennial commemoration bank) portrays a proud American eagle perched on a cliff; nice detail to original copper finish with original coin trap in near mint condition. 6 3/8" high. Made for "United Savings Bank" Referenced #145 "Coin Banks by Banthrico" by Jim Redwine (published 2001) 3) "Covered Wagon" Made by Banthrico Incorporated and from the 1950's, by "The Union Banking Company"; depicts a fully loaded chuck wagon with buckets, and a chest ":parked" on western terrain. Finished with copper finish to white metal, with the typical saw tooth coin trap intact, in excellent and all original condition. 4 5/8" long Referenced #432 "Coin Banks by Banthrico" by Jim Redwine (published 2001) 4) "Well's Fargo Stagecoach Bank" Later made promotional bank by Well's Fargo banking institution; in all original and complete condition with original paint colors of red, yellow, and black, authentic looking stagecoach; in very good condition with coin trap intact and no repaint, restoration or dents. 4 3/4" long 5) "Three Little Pigs" Inscribed on front base plate, all original condition with coin trap intact. Slight manufacturing "blow hole" at base of one of the pigs (see image specific to this); unknown manufacture. Made of copper; measures 5" high. 6) "Indian Chief" Put out by "The Multnomah Bank of Portland,m Oregon; depicts an Indian Chief in full feathered head dress and chieftain regalia; with typical Banthrico Company original copper finish and Banthrico original coin trap to the base. Measures 5" high. Circa 1962 Referenced #27 "Coin Banks by Banthrico" by Jim Redwine (published 2001) 7) "Shoe House" Bank Mistakenly called "Old Lady and the Shoe Bank"; this particular bank is of unknown manufacture (could be early Banthrico bank...
Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Metal

"Toby" Jug Still Bank and Biscuit Tin, circa 1910
Located in Incline Village, NV
This is both a still bank and a biscuit tin. It would originally have been sold, filled with biscuits. After all of the cookies would have been consumed, the tin (rather than been thrown away) would have been used as a bank to save money. There is a slot for deposits at the back of the neck at the top (see image). Coins would have been removed by lifting or twisting the snug fitting lid. Toby is nicely hand-painted in pleasing colors of green, blue, gold, and white, with realistic flesh tones to the hands and face. The total height is 6 1/2" while the total width is 6" (includes handle). Diameter at the base is 5". This Toby figured tin was manufactured circa 1911 by the biscuit tin company of Hudson Scott located in Carlisle, England. It is marked at the bottom "Hudson Scott & Sons Ltd. Carlisle, England." It has crossover appeal into three categories of collectors. It would be a welcome addition to both the still bank collector and the biscuit tin collector...
Category

1910s English Vintage Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Tin

Santa Claus Belsnickel Papermache Candy Container German Christmas 1910s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A beautiful German Belsnickle / Santa Claus candy container. Was probably made before World War One in Germany. We attribute this to the fact that he is wearing a spiked helmet. Scat...
Category

Early 20th Century German Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Paper

Rare Original Cody Foster Folk Art Pink Wool Rabbit Easter Bunny Doll Strawberry
Located in Dayton, OH
One of Cody Fosters early original works. Folk art style stuffed animal figurine in the form of a pink rabbit wearing a bow tie and holding a yellow velvet...
Category

Late 20th Century Folk Art Toys and Dolls

Materials

Wool, Velvet, Plaster, Paint

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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