1960s Noddy-Style Plastic Egg Cup Figure
A cheerful 1960s unmarked Noddy-style plastic egg cup figure, combining a character head with a moulded pedestal base.
This charming 1960s plastic egg cup features a stylised child figure reminiscent of Enid Blyton’s Noddy character, though produced as an unlicensed novelty item for the souvenir and children’s tableware market. These figures were common in the late 1950s–1960s and typically made in Hong Kong or Japan, often without maker’s marks.
The design consists of a hollow moulded head with painted facial details, brown hair, and a yellow edging at the top rim, forming the bowl for holding an egg. The body is brightly painted in classic mid-century toy colours—red shirt, patterned yellow scarf, blue trousers—and stands atop a domed white plastic base decorated with red accents. The proportions and expressive face reflect the playful styling typical of early plastic children’s items.
Although unmarked, the moulding style and paint application are consistent with mass-produced export plastics of the 1960s. The piece remains in good condition, with light paint wear to the hair rim but no cracks or structural damage.
Features
Measurements: 50 mm round x 90 mm high
Condition: Good - some paint wearing at top of hair
Markings: -
Date Note: Date is an estimate based on available research and stylistic features. If you have additional information, please contact us to help update our records.
Made from the following materials
Hard plastic dolls and toys emerged as a significant innovation in the toy industry during the mid-20th century, revolutionizing the way dolls were designed and manufactured. Hard plastic is a type of thermoplastic, characterized by its durability, lightweight nature, and resistance to breakage. This material became popular for creating dolls, action figures, and various toys due to its versatility and ability to hold intricate details and vibrant colors.
The development of hard plastic allowed for the mass production of toys that were not only affordable but also more resilient than earlier materials like composition or porcelain. As a result, manufacturers were able to produce a wide variety of designs, from classic baby dolls to trendy fashion figures, each with detailed facial features and movable limbs. This material also enabled the incorporation of new techniques, such as molded hair and painted eyes, which enhanced the realism and appeal of the dolls.
Among the earliest forms of hard plastic used in toy manufacturing was **Bakelite**, created in the early 1900s by Belgian chemist Leo Baekeland. Bakelite is one of the first synthetic plastics, made from phenol and formaldehyde. Its properties, including heat resistance and electrical insulation, made it ideal for various applications, including toys. While Bakelite itself is not commonly used in doll-making today, its introduction paved the way for the development of modern plastics in the toy industry.
**Catalin** is another early form of hard plastic that emerged in the 1930s and was often used for creating vibrant toys and dolls. Like Bakelite, Catalin is a thermosetting plastic known for its durability and ability to hold color well. Catalin toys often featured bright, translucent colors and intricate designs, capturing the imaginations of children and collectors alike.
As hard plastic became the standard for many types of dolls and toys, it solidified its place in the industry, leading to the creation of iconic brands and beloved characters. Today, hard plastic dolls and toys continue to be popular, appreciated for their longevity and the nostalgia they evoke. Collectors value vintage hard plastic toys for their craftsmanship and the unique place they hold in the history of toy making.
At our museum, we celebrate the legacy of hard plastic dolls and toys, highlighting their role in shaping the modern toy industry and their enduring appeal across generations.
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