James D. Julia
Lot 3014
OUTSTANDING AND VERY EARLY STEIFF VELVET CAT PINCUSHION WITH BUTTON. Cat is lying, unjointed, and made from white velvet that has been painted with black and brown spots and stripes. He has a very long tail which sticks out straight behind him. Cat wears a light blue ruff which is original to him. Cat holds a tiny blue velvet pillow style pincushion between his two front paws. The pincushion is detailed with two tiny blue silk bows and a few silver straight pins. Cat`s adorable face is detailed with tiny black shoebutton eyes, a light pink hand-embroidered nose and mouth that are highlighted with a touch of pink paint, and clear monofilament whiskers. This is only the second time this cataloger has seen this pattern; it is rare, classic, and truly demonstrates the best of Steiff`s turn of last century design and manufacturing capabilities. This cat pincushion appeared in the line in this size only from 1902 though 1918. Cat retains her tiny trailing ""F"" button and traces of her white ear tag as her Steiff IDs. SIZE: Overall 3-1/4"" t (8cm). PROVENANCE: Ex-Christie`s Sale 5035 lot 88; Chuck & Cathy Steffes Collection. CONDITION: Slightly dusty and a few discolorations in the velvet, otherwise excellent. 1-13792
