Antique Noah's Ark, 15 Figures, Handmade by Uk War Relief Wwi Soldiers 1918-20

Description

WAR RELIEF WORKS project, Antique Noah’s Ark, made in England by WWI wounded soldiers (per dealers and an article).

I … more WAR RELIEF WORKS project, Antique Noah’s Ark, made in England by WWI wounded soldiers (per dealers and an article).

I purchased this at Round Top, Texas in the Red Barn 20 years.

-Kept in a clean, non-smoking home, well away from sunshine in cabinet and never played with since I’ve owned it.

A "War Relief Toy Works" Noah's ark, circa 1918-1920s. Hand painted and hinged roof complete with Noah and wife for a total of 15 characters.

-They were called “Sunday Toys” because it was acceptable to play with these toys, even on the Sabbath.

-Original paper sheet with poem inside the lid stamped “ Made in England”

-Also included is a handwritten note of the woman that was the original owner of the ark per the dealer.
-Original hidden/ (the hold or bilge) compartment that allows you to put the figures inside the ark in the bottom compartment or replace the floor and put them above the removable floor. The piece of thin wood can easily be taken out to access the hold.
-One side of the floor board has a crack, per pics. It doesn’t go through the thickness as it is not seen on the other side and feels sturdy.

-Hinges work well

-Some of the animals have paint loss and a few are missing tips, but all have their original paint-see pics.
The giraffe is missing a hind foot. He doesn’t stand on his own; I lean him against the ark, as in the picture.
-On one side of the ark the windows are bolder than the other.
-Few scuffs and scraps—please study the pictures and ask for more if it will help. I have close up of the giraffe’s leg.
-Measurements: 9”H x 15.5”L x 5” W less