This beautiful rare original 1978 Gabrielle Aunt Lucy Bear is a collectible vintage toy that captures the charm of the beloved character created by Michael Bond. Made by Gabrielle Designs, this bear was crafted with high-quality materials and has had only a single owner since new and is in good condition.
Aunt Lucy is is wearing her original bloomers (elastic is loose and bloomers would benefit from washing) and skirt, along with her shawl. In her bloomers pocket are the two original Peruvian coins. Aunt Lucy is 43cm tall (17") and 32cm wide (paw to paw) (12.5") and weighs 1.067kg. The hat and glasses would need to be purchased separately as the owner misplaced these over the years, along with the tag.
Gabrielle Designs was started in Doncaster by Jeremy Clarkson's mum Shirley Clarkson from her home in Doncaster, England. As a gift for her children Shirley would lovingly craft that year's toy of choice and having recently read and loved Michael Bond's new book about a 'delightful little bear called Paddington' Shirley knew at once that was to be this year's toy. Not only that but once the first bear had been put together from studying the original drawings, she knew it was going to be a Gabrielle product. After some negotiations with lawyers representing Michael Bond Gabrielle Designs was granted the first licence to manufacture a Paddington Bear soft toy.
As a piece of nostalgia, this beautiful Bear is highly sought after by collectors and fans, representing a timeless link to childhood and the adventures of Paddington in London. Whether you’re a serious collector or just love the character, these bears are a wonderful piece of history!
