MAX Hand Puppet by Curt Meissner ~ 1960s death

MAX Hand Puppet by Curt Meissner ~ 1960s deathGermany is recognized worldwide as home to one of the most creative toy making industries in Europe. It is not a surprise that puppetry is also very strong and has been part of their vibrant culture for hundreds of years. The brand iKnstlerpuppe (Artist Dolls) is a great example of this elaborate style of early hand puppets once produced in the German Democratic Republic (GDR). This Max hand puppet was created in the Curt Meiner workshop circa 1960s

It seemed to have melted due to heat

Here's a vintage KING Hand Puppet full of personality

despite the years of wear that have left it with stains and holes

Judy shows wear

This Bear hand puppet was created in the Curt Meißner workshop circa 1960s and is meticulously handcrafted from plush fabric

This beautiful Dog hand puppet is a good example of the Russian mastery of puppet making

Her eye-catching expression with stitched features and glass googly eyes is adorable

This piece was finely hand carved in Germany circa 1930s and has an amazing expression

Foxy is one of Steiff's most beloved dogs and he is even more charming as a hand puppet

including super fun hand puppets as part of the novelty human characters with PVC heads introduced during the 60-80s

However its imperfections only give it an added layer of charm and personality

His head is filled with excelsior (wood wool) and has a cardboard finger tube for movement