Ming Panda

Ming Panda was the first giant panda to set paws on British soil in 1838. Arriving at London Docks as a cub, she went on to give a much-welcomed boost to the nation’s morale following the outbreak of World War 2, and even met the young Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret during a visit to London Zoo.

In 1939, Merrythought was commissioned by London Zoo to create a life-like (and life-sized!) copy of the famous giant panda to act as a stand-in when she wasn’t in her enclosure – Ming frequently starred in topical films about her species as well as media appearances. Rising to the challenge, Merrythought designed a remarkable, life-sized toy with incredible likeness to the real Ming, described as ‘so natural looking that it is most difficult to distinguish from the live Panda’.

This detailed recreation of Merrythought’s original Ming Panda has been handmade in our historic British factory from the same patterns – albeit in a more practical size! – using similar traditional skills and materials. The finest off-white and black mohair plush are combined to create Ming’s distinctive markings, while this unique standing toy’s jointed neck allows her to stand in a variety of poses. Accessorised with a red velvet collar with a sliding buckle.

As with each character in Merrythought’s Heritage Collection, Ming Panda features an authentic replica of our earliest ‘hygienic toys’ label, and has been individually numbered as a Special Edition. Presented in a pure cotton dust bag with a Certificate of Authenticity.

WARNING! This product is not a toy and is intended for adult collectors only.

Teddy Bear Outer:
Mohair plush
Wool felt

Filling:
Recycled polyester (PET)
Recycled glass beads

Accessory:
Velvet collar
Sliding bar buckle
Brass cap

Light surface clean only