The "Golliwogg" made his first literary appearance in 1895 in a series of Children's books by Florence K. Upton. The enormous critical and commercial success of these books established the Golliwogg's reputation in the world of playthings. The Golliwogg's likeness was made in doll form along with a profusion of related merchandise. Store-fronts were filled with everything Golliwogg! The Golliwogg soon established itself as the most popular doll of its time and along with the Teddy Bear became a cherished part of British childhood.

The earliest commercially made Golliwoggs were manufactured by the Margarite Steiff Company in Giengen, Germany between 1908 and 1916. Few examples have survived and they are avidly sought after by Steiff and Golli collectors. Other companies to produce Golliwoggs were Chad Valley, Dean's Rag Doll, and the Alliance Toy Company of England.

In 1996 R. John Wright added an exciting new chapter to the history of the Golliwogg by choosing the character as the first edition of the newly-formed R. John Wright Collector Club. Constructed entirely of the finest imported 100% wool felt and featuring a mohair wig, the RJW Golliwogg stands 11" high and is fully jointed for posability. Hand painted eyes, an applied felt mouth, and embroidered stitching on the hands are among his fine details. This dapper little fellow is costumed in the height of Golli fashion, including meticulously pieced felt checked trousers and hand-cobbled leather shoes with custom-made brass buckles. Golliwogg was limited to 2500 pieces.

Miss Golli - the second exclusive edition of the R. John Wright Collector Club - was released the following year. Similarly constructed of the finest custom-made all-wool felt, this charming companion to Golliwogg is attired in the height of Golli fashion. Her outfit includes an empire-style dress with applied felt polka dots, custom-made leather slippers, and a fetching felt bonnet and purse. Female Golliwoggs are always in short supply and Miss Golli is no exception. There were only 849 Miss Golli produced.

Both Golliwoggs were made in numbered editions limited to the Club year. Each came beautifully boxed in the R. John Wright tradition with a signed and numbered certificate of authenticity and forms for owner registration.

DIRECT PURCHASE: The Golliwogg couple offered here are both extremely rare. Golliwogg is number 1500 and Miss Golli is number 27. Both come directly from the R. John Wright Archives in pristine as-new condition. The purchase price of $925.00 each includes shipping & insurance in the domestic United States. [For overseas shipping rates, contact the RJW office.]

TO ORDER ONLINE: Please select the options below which best describe your request. All orders are subject to availability.

You may also place your order request via phone: 1-802-447-7072.