This scarce Schoenhut Circus Elephant, produced between 1903 and 1918, represents one of the earliest and most desirable models from the celebrated Schoenhut Humpty Dumpty Circus line. By the early 20th century, five of Albert Schoenhut’s six sons had joined him in the family’s Philadelphia workshop, where they crafted dolls, pianos, toys, and the now‑iconic circus performers and animals.
Early Schoenhut circus pieces with glass eyes and original accessories are especially prized by collectors, and this large 8‑inch elephant is an outstanding example. It features its ceremonial head cover, fringed blanket, and all of its original structural elements, including:
Leather‑tipped wooden trunk
Original tusks
Leather flap ears
Swivel neck
Fully jointed legs
Rope tail
This early large‑format elephant is in excellent all‑original condition, retaining its authentic finish and charming character. Early Schoenhut animals are known for their durability, poseability, and expressive sculpting, and examples with intact accessories—especially glass‑eyed versions—are increasingly difficult to find.
A standout addition to any collection of Schoenhut toys, Humpty Dumpty Circus figures, or early American wooden toys.
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