Sunday, November 14, 2021

March of the Toy Soldiers

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s ballet The Nutcracker, which premiered in 1892, is a beloved Christmas tradition. The ballet includes the iconic March of the Toy Soldiers and the images of toy soldiers in brightly colored uniforms are now indelibly associated with the season. Just in time for the holidays, our  trove has battalions of beautiful vintage toy soldiers in their original boxes. 


 Each box carries the label "Soldat de Plomb historique," which translates as "historical lead soldier." The box promises the contents will "instruire en amusant" (will instruct while having fun). These amazing armies are attributed to the French maker Mignot, which was founded in Paris in 1825. Initially, the company produced trinkets and children's toys, but in 1838 began to produce toy soldiers. The company gained renown for its detailed and finely crafted lead soldiers and is still in production under the name CBG Mignot. These sets are believed to date from the 1930s.


The sets include everything from foot soldiers to mounted military men to colorful standard-bearers.









All posted items are for sale at Next-to-New, but things can sell quickly!

 13981-12 to 18

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