Toy figure
Britains Ltd.
Category
Toys
Date
circa 1940 - circa 1949
Materials
Metal and cardboard
Measurements
Each figure - 100 mm (length); 25 mm (width); 70 mm (height)
Place of origin
London
Order this imageCollection
Sudbury Hall Museum of Childhood, Derbyshire
NT 664353
Summary
Three model figures depicting stereotypical representations of Native Americans on horseback. Two figures have their right arms missing. One figure, on a black horse mounted on a stand, has a right arm jointed at the shoulder and carries a tomahawk. The models date from the 1940s. Original box. Toy soldiers have been popular since at least the 18th century. In 1893 William Britain, a British toy manufacturer, invented a method of hollow casting that made the brand, Britains Ltd., a market leader. Britain produced toys which replicated famous conflicts, including those known as the ‘Indian Wars’ in the western United States (1811-1924). These conflicts had been fictionalised and brought to British audiences via Wild West stage shows and later Western films. Caricatures in these entertainments informed the game of 'Cowboys and Indians' which became popular in the United States and United Kingdom. The representation of Native Americans in these toys does not reflect the diversity of Indigenous nations, and perpetuates a stereotype of Indigenous peoples as aggressive antagonists.
Marks and inscriptions
The original box is covered with dark red paper. On the lid is a green label with black printing. In bold letters is printed "North American Indians Mounted'. In the top left-hand corner is printed 'Manufactured By W. Britain England In London'. In the lower right-hand corner is printed 'No.152'. Please note that "North American Indians..." is being quoted in historical context this is now recognised as outdated and offensive language.
Makers and roles
Britains Ltd., maker