Want to see something about toy soldiers by other makers than Britains? Then send us your ideas – here is a short piece about French composition figures drafted by Jim Spina. We welcome all such contributions!
In the late 19th century two companies in France, known as SFBJ (Société Française de Fabrication de Bebes & Jouets) and Bon Dufour (Villard & Weill), produced toy soldiers made from a substance that we now call Papier-mâché. The former were quite detailed models, while the latter were much more naïve and toy like. They were produced to man the splendid forts that Bon Dufour produced.
Their soldiers were 3 and 4 inch figures, representing various French Army units. Some were Zouaves wearing fezzes while others were Lancers showing off plumed helmets. Infantrymen wore visored caps and carried rifles. Occasionally, an officer rode a horse.
The French Papier-mâché materials were glue mixed with saw dust to create a substance that was strong and supple, but susceptible to water damage. Today, it is very difficult to find figures that are not chipped or partially broken.
The figures shown in this short article were discovered at a soldier show in Annapolis in 2003 when such shows were still in vogue. From time-to-time, single figures may be offered for sale today by independent dealers. They usually bring about $45 per figure.
These rare little fellows are very engaging and give viewers a feeling of humor when they are on display.
There is an excellent article in a Knopf Collector Guide for Toys published in 1984 with some information about other larger figures that were made in France in the 20th century. It also shows excellent examples that are nearly perfect figures, with bright colors. In the meantime enjoy these pictures from my collection own and help to keep the hobby alive and well by spreading the word about the Old Toy Soldier Journal.
