1926 Cameo Doll Co., Pete The Pup by Walter Lantz
One of the earliest animated cartoon characters was Pete the Pup. He was created during the black and white silent film era in 1925 by Walter Lantz. This is same Walter Lantz who would go on to stardom with his infamous character, Woody Woodpecker. Lantz drew Pete the Pup for the John Bray studios in New York City. It was his first job. However, his career there was short lived. The company went bankrupt in 1927. From my research less than 15 Pete cartoons were drawn. Apparently tough Pete's two years on film were enough to convince the Cameo Doll Co., to memorialize him by producing a full, three dimensional doll. However, in this case, I don't think he was ever played with. The toy auction house where I purchased it from graded it as MINT condition. The head is made from composition material. The body is painted wood strung together with elastic. Pete bends at the top of his legs, elbow, and shoulders. Of course his head can turn as well. His "Pete The Pup" chest decal is 100% intact. The underside pegs in both feet are embossed with the Cameo trademark name. Pete has had no repairs, replacements, or touch-up's. Size: 9¼". Sold: Jul. 2007
Price Sold: $ 912
