"Petite" miniature typewriter for children. Comes with its original sturdy cardboard box with period artwork. From the illustration style I estimate this dates from the late 1940s to 1950s - they were made in plastic by the 1960s, so this is an early model.
The included leaflet waxes lyrical:
"The PETITE miniature typewriter represents the first serious attempt to produce specifically for children - of all ages - a real, working typewriter with a full alphabetical keyboard of the standard office machine type, and all the basic requirements for the easy production of typewritten matter of every description.
The PETITE is operated just like any other typewriter - but it has been carefully designed to give the very best results when operated by young or inexpert hands. Nevertheless, after a little practice, the user will quickly gain speed, confidence and typing skill... and before long this miniature typewriter will become an essential part of the daily life of every child - and many adults too.
Using the PETITE miniature typewriter teaches children to spell and use words in a PRACTICAL manner. The child not only lyearns to operate a mechanical instrument, but learns construction as well as spelling thrugh the vivid associations and word-pictures formed in his mind as he uses the machine.
The modern styling and colourful appearance of the PETITE miniature typewriter, combined with its light weight and excellent touch serve the dual role of giving pleasure to the user and ensuring the maximum of ease and comfort in its operation"
Intriguingly, in the list of its merits, it also says ⭐AND IT WILL EVEN CUT A SATISFACTORY STENCIL!
Good vintage condition, with minor flaws. There is wear to the paint on the space bar, and the exposed metal has rusted slightly. Although I've never tested it as the ribbon has completely dried out, the keys still function well and the carriage moves freely, so it could potentially be restored to full working condition.
A delightful item, I've had it on display for many years in an Ikea bookcase, but I no longer have the display space for it.