B. Altman & Co. Teddy Bear

by Michael
(New York, NY)

Found him in an antique steamer trunk that had been set out on the street, in the trash. The trunk was labeled "Stuffed Animals" and "Barry" was on the bottom.

He stands 13" tall from foot to top of ear. His limbs are articulated and his eyes are made of orange and black glass. His single cotton label reads: "Made in England for B. Altman & Co., 5th Ave., New York".

Altman's was a renowned New York department store that opened in 1864. It closed in 1990, the building was landmarked and it currently houses a portion of CUNY University. Barry was purchased in this building. It sits across the street from The Empire State Building.

My research shows that Altman's 1989 "limited Edition" teddy bear was manufactured in South Korea. It was intended to resemble an original, modified version of the original 1902 TR example. I'm assuming Barry was made before Asia became a primary manufacturing location for goods intended for export to America and other countries.

The label reminds me of other textile labels I've seen on goods manufactured before 1970. "B. Altman & Co." is written in script.

My questions follow:

(1) When was this teddy bear made?

(2) Which English company (or companies) manufactured teddy bears for B. Altman & Co.? The answer will enable me to contact that company (if extant) with further questions.

(3) From what materials is Barry manufactured - hair, stuffing and armature (if existing)?

Thank you all for your consideration in helping me research Barry's provenance;

Michael

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