Hobby Horse Toy 1935 - 1942

This Hobby Horse Toy, likely made sometime in the 19th century by Du Bois, is crafted from humble materials: solid wood, shaped and joined with simple carpentry. The form speaks volumes about its intended use and cultural significance. Its smooth, rounded rockers invite gentle motion, while the stylized horse form sparks imagination. Notice the subtle texture of the wood grain, hinting at the hand-craftsmanship involved. The saddle, the horse's tail, all are integral to the toy's function and appeal. But beyond its aesthetic charm, this hobby horse reflects broader social themes. It speaks to the value placed on childhood and leisure, and how craft traditions were engaged to create objects of joy. In a world increasingly shaped by industrial production, handmade toys like this one represented a connection to simpler times and individual skill. By valuing both its form and the labor it embodies, we can appreciate this hobby horse as more than just a plaything.