Peter the Snow Skiing Hedgehog Figurine – Orig. Peter, Austria, 1978

A 1978 Austrian “Orig. Peter” hedgehog figurine on skis, wearing bright felt clothing and carrying his original tag.

This charming collectible is part of the Austrian “Orig. Peter” hedgehog Figuren line, crafted in 1978. It features Peter the Hedgehog enjoying a day on the slopes, complete with red skis and poles, a red felt jacket, yellow scarf, and blue trousers.

The figurine retains its original triangular tag, marked “Orig Peter” on one side and “Made in Austria” on the reverse, confirming its authenticity. Measuring 100 x 54 x 100 mm, this example is in very good condition with minimal signs of age. Inspired by the popular German Mecki hedgehogs, these Austrian figures have become highly sought after by collectors of vintage toys, hedgehog memorabilia, and European folk art.

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Features

  • Maker: Peter Figuren by Peter Gustav and co
  • Era: 1978
  • Materials & Build: Hard plastic, felt clothes,
  • Size: Approx. 100 × 100 × 54 mm.
  • Condition: Good condition - broken ski pole

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    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.

     

     

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    Made from the following materials

    Hard Plastic

    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.

    Country:
    Austria
    Produced by:
    Peter Gustav and Co
    Produced by:
    Peter Gustav and Co
    Gustav Peter was born in 1918 in Innsbruck, Austria, where he spent his childhood and youth. Trained as a metalworker, he later specialised in blacksmithing and worked on wire mesh fencing, military supplies for Russia, and prisoner-of-war barracks during World War II. After the war, with Tyrol as his only remaining home, he turned to creativity and innovation to rebuild his livelihood. Inspired by the classic tale The Hare and the Hedgehog, Gustav Peter began designing and producing small, costumed hedgehog figures. A skilled craftsman and talented illustrator, he created the original models himself, starting with hedgehogs before later expanding into whimsical “Laffun Heads” and witches. He founded his business in Hatting, but in 1956 relocated production to Inzing. At its height, his company, affectionately known as Igele-Peter, employed around 30 staff and 180 home-based workers. Together they produced hedgehog figurines in more than 70 different “professions” — from skiers to cooks — providing vital income opportunities for many local families. The hedgehogs quickly became an important social and economic part of village life. In 1985, production in Inzing ceased and the company was sold to Salzburg. Yet the legacy of Gustav Peter’s creativity endured. He passed away in 2000 after a long illness, but his charming Inzing hedgehog figurines remain beloved by collectors and continue to symbolise his inventive spirit and contribution to Austrian folk art.
    Produced by:
    Peter Gustav and Co
    Gustav Peter was born in 1918 in Innsbruck, Austria, where he spent his childhood and youth. Trained as a metalworker, he later specialised in blacksmithing and worked on wire mesh fencing, military supplies for Russia, and prisoner-of-war barracks during World War II. After the war, with Tyrol as his only remaining home, he turned to creativity and innovation to rebuild his livelihood. Inspired by the classic tale The Hare and the Hedgehog, Gustav Peter began designing and producing small, costumed hedgehog figures. A skilled craftsman and talented illustrator, he created the original models himself, starting with hedgehogs before later expanding into whimsical “Laffun Heads” and witches. He founded his business in Hatting, but in 1956 relocated production to Inzing. At its height, his company, affectionately known as Igele-Peter, employed around 30 staff and 180 home-based workers. Together they produced hedgehog figurines in more than 70 different “professions” — from skiers to cooks — providing vital income opportunities for many local families. The hedgehogs quickly became an important social and economic part of village life. In 1985, production in Inzing ceased and the company was sold to Salzburg. Yet the legacy of Gustav Peter’s creativity endured. He passed away in 2000 after a long illness, but his charming Inzing hedgehog figurines remain beloved by collectors and continue to symbolise his inventive spirit and contribution to Austrian folk art.
    Designed by:
    Designed by:
    Product Code:
    T0058
    Dimenions:

    100(h)

    x 45(w)

    x 100(d)

    Estimated Item Value
    30
    Produced from:
    1978
    to
    Markings:
    Made in Austria
    Condition:
    Good
    Virtual tour location:
    M26

    Additional Product Images

    Side view of Peter the Snow Skiing Hedgehog figurine from Austria wearing red jacket and yellow scarf on red skis.
    Side profile of Peter the Hedgehog skier figurine in felt clothing and skis, Austria.
    Back view of Austrian Peter the Hedgehog skiing figurine in red jacket and blue trousers.
    Bottom view of Peter the Snow Skiing Hedgehog figurine showing skis and construction details.
    No items found.

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