As with Erzgebirge and Noah's Arks, Maria and Dieter and I also have a collector's passion for early German squeak toys.  Maria and Dieter tell me the fine early examples are extremely hard to find  in Germany.  It appears most were sent as export.  The example above, part of Maria and Dieter's collection, dates to the Biedermeier period and was found here in the US.  The handpainted background with its still vibrant colors is a dream!  A real treasure!

This baby in cradle squeak toy is in both my collection and also Maria and Dieter's.  My version is somewhat smaller than theirs.  Old German sample books often picture toys like this made in three or more sizes.  Original ribbon, lace and fabric.  Ca. 1850.

 

 

Maria dates this unusual squeaker to 1830.  Note the very good condition of the fabric covering the bellows in the center combining a cat's face on one side and a lion's face on the other.  The lion's mouth is open to reveal a moveable tongue.  Charming!

I recently acquired this rare Erzgebirge squeaker.  We have never before seen Erzgebirge combined with the squeaker platform.  The lady even has a carved nose -- which shows a higher level of craftsmanship. 

Ca. 1900 papier-mache dog from Maria and Dieter's collection.  Every kind of animal was incorporated on a squeak mechanism, and collectors love them!

 

 Mr. Duck was recently delivered by UPS.  Unfortunately, he arrived a little worse for the wear.  A crushed box caused me concern, and when I went to unwrap him I could tell all was not well.  One of the metal springs had been broken and substantially more paper torn on the squeaker platform.  He's now residing at the UPS claims office waiting for a ruling on his future.  What a shame for such a lovely piece to have been damaged.  It's not like I can find another!