Toy figure
W. Britain
Category
Toys
Date
Unknown
Materials
Metal
Measurements
Each model (min) – 58 mm (height); 23 mm (width); 37 mm (length), Each model (max) - 80 mm (height); 25 mm (width); 85 mm (length)
Order this imageCollection
Sudbury Hall Museum of Childhood, Derbyshire
NT 671330
Summary
Fifteen metal model figures. Two figures depict stereotypical representations of Native Americans. Both have headdresses and are standing on oblong green bases. One is wearing a green top and has a tomahawk. The other figure is wearing a blue top and has a dagger. There are four male figures on horseback representing stereotypical cowboys. Two are wearing orange tops and two are wearing black tops. They are all wearing hats. One figure is complete and sits on the horse holding the reins with one hand. The right arm is jointed at the shoulder and holds a pistol. The other three figures on horseback have damage on the horses' legs and on the arms and heads of the riders. There are seven male figures representing stereotypical cowboys standing on individual green bases. Three are wearing orange tops. Two are wearing yellow tops. Two are wearing blue tops. They are all wearing hats. Three of the figures are jointed at the right shoulder and carry pistols. Four are jointed on the left shoulder and carry rifles. Three figures are complete and four have damage on the arms and necks. 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, W. Britain, 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.
Provenance
Donated to the Museum of Childhood by Mr Lawrence Bray in May 1983.
Marks and inscriptions
On the base of one red indian : 'COPYRIGHT/ BRITAINS LTD/ PROPRIETORS/ MADE IN ENGLAND' On the underside of the horses : 'PROPRIETOR BRITAIN LTD/ DEPOSE/ COPYRIGHT' On the base of the cowboys : 'COPYRIGHT/ BRITAINS LTD/ PROPRIETORS/ ENGLAND'
Makers and roles
W. Britain , maker