Bringing together the expertise of the world's greatest auction house and the knowledge of one of the world's leading teddy bear specialists, Christie's Century of Teddy Bears celebrates the one hundredth birthday of the bear, tracing its ascent from humble nursery companion to highly sought after collectors' item. Featuring the histories of the most important bear manufacturers from around the world, including Steiff, Ideal, Chad Valley, Bing, Schuco and Merrythought, this book also relates the endearing stories of individual bears. These include Teddy Girl, who achieved a world record breaking price at auction as a result of her alluring looks and experiences during both world wars, and Donald Campbell's Mr Whoppit who accompanied him in the Bluebird on his last fateful attempt at the world speed record. Special illustrated features examine the teddy at war, literary, media and novelty bears, and there is a comprehensive section of tips for collectors. Superbly illustrated with images from the Christie's archives and private collections, Christie's Century of Teddy Bears is an authoritative history and guide, and essential gift for anyone who has ever loved a teddy bear.