Each of the figures is two-dimensional with the original wood framework and Old King Cole label attached on the back. Intended for store windows or wall display, small braces could be easily added for floor display as well. The character name for each is recessed into design. Snow White measures 39.625" tall x 13.5" wide. The dwarfs are approximately 24" x 20.5".
The two cottages match in style to the Old King Cole displays but are unmarked. The larger measures 53" x 39.75", the smaller is 39.625" x 39.5".
Old King Cole images and information via Hakes.
Disney Old King Cole displays are among the most sought after Disneyana of any era. According to Hakes, this is the only complete Snow White set in this style known to exist. There is another display set, but it features totally different designs for the characters.
Pictured in the 1987 Brian Sibley and Richard Hollis Snow White book: The Making of a Classic Film, p.73, these Old King Cole figures are shown in a 1938 theatre display. Note also the papier mâché head on top.
Page 73, copyright 1987 Brian Sibley and Richard Hollis.
The figures were also on display, along with the papier mâché heads, in the courtyard of the Cathay Circle Theatre during the 1937 world premiere. (See earlier Archive entry for more pics.)
Art Exhibit photo courtesy of the David Lesjak Collection via Vintage Disney Collectibles.
Special thanks to William Stillman for his generous assistance with this post.
I was thinking of sending you the link to these awesome items, but was sure that you would already know about them!
ReplyDeleteI do miss a lot of these, but thanks to folks like yourself Major, I often hear about them.
DeleteI just came across an Old King Cole - Dopey
ReplyDelete