Very scarce piece of design history, "The Toy" designed by Charles and Ray Eames and manufactured by Tigrett Enterprises ca. 1951-1959.

Contains: 4 triangle sheets, 4 square pieces "construction dowels,  bracing dowels, & Original box.

Condition: contents are nice box is nice does show shelf ware

see photos

From the Eames Office https://www.eamesoffice.com/stories/the-toy/

“Toys found a place in the Eames design catalog on numerous occasions, and the Eames Office approached them with the same importance as their more renowned furniture designs... Inspired by the work of Eames friend, Buckminster Fuller, the Eames Office designed a geometric building kit unassumingly named The Toy in 1951. A label on the outside of the box describes the product as “Large-Colorful-Easy to Assemble-For Creating A Light, Bright Expandable World Large Enough To Play In and Around.”

The Toy was first in production from 1951 to 1959 and manufactured by Tigrett Enterprises in Jackson, Tennessee. It was the Eames Office’s second endeavor at designing and manufacturing a toy intended for the consumer market (Eames Masks were the first), however, it was the first to be successfully manufactured and sold. 

Children were the commercial target for The Toy, yet, Charles and Ray—being the aficionados of toys that they were—never excluded adults from the enjoyment. Instructions included inside the box reveal that The Toy‘s audience was not limited:

The Toy is designed for many colorful hours of fun for the whole family, and each member can share and enjoy The Toy in his own way.

The baby as a bright world to grow in–

The small child as houses and tunnels and tents to play in–

The boys and girls as towers, puppet theaters, large and exciting structures–

The high school age as brilliant party decorations, plays and pageant sets–

In college as campus and house decorations, fantastic and brilliant hanging objects to hover over a junior prom–

Young men and women, clubs, civic organizations, floats and festivals–

The Toy gives each one the means with which to express himself in big structures and brilliant colors.”

Similar to Herman Miller, George Nelson, Alexander Girard

Embark on a journey to the golden age of mid-century modern design with this rare and enchanting 1951-1959 Charles Eames "The Toy" Build and Playset. A true vintage gem, this playset is not just a game; it's a piece of design history that captures the essence of the 1950s, when innovation and creativity were at the forefront of play.

Crafted by the iconic Charles Eames, a mastermind of mid-century design, this playset is a testament to the intersection of art and play. Each piece reflects the distinctive aesthetic of the era, showcasing clean lines, geometric shapes, and a harmonious blend of form and function.

The retro charm of "The Toy" is not only in its design but also in its ability to transport you back to a time when simplicity and elegance defined playtime. The vintage appeal of this build and playset makes it a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts alike, offering a glimpse into the creativity that thrived in the mid-20th century.

This antique playset is more than just a game; it's an immersive experience that allows you to connect with the innovative spirit of Charles Eames. As you handle each piece, you're not just playing; you're engaging with a piece of design history that has stood the test of time.

Bid now to make this rare Charles Eames "The Toy" Build and Playset yours and infuse your space with the timeless elegance of mid-century modern design. Don't miss the opportunity to own a piece of the past that continues to captivate with its beauty and ingenuity.