This wonderful Optical Toy is titled on the lid of the box and on the instruction sheet “Pictorial Review Theatre”. The paperboard box measures approx. 16” by 12” by 1 3/4” deep. The Toy includes the stage front with roll up curtain, a wood stage floor with grooves on the top and four stage “sets” each including a pictorial backdrop and two side panels. The four “sets” present scenes from “Little Red Riding Hood”.

    This Toy Theater features a wood frame stage front / proscenium that supports paperboard sides and arch with a cloth “curtain” that rolls up to expose the opening of the proscenium and allow the stage itself to be seen. The outer surface of the stage front features outstanding chromolithograph decoration as can be seen in the scans below. Also included is a heavy, wooden stage floor with grooves in the surface that hold the various “sets” included with the Toy. There are complete sets for four different stage “acts” of the play “Little Red Riding Hood” including “Red Riding Hood’s House”, a “Wood Scene”, “Grandmother’s Cottage” and “Death of the Wicked Wolf”. Each Set includes a backdrop and two side panels that create the setting for a scene from the story. Also included is a one page set of instructions / directions.

    The Toy Theater does not carry a manufacturer’s mark, however a number of catalogers (including the Library of Congress) identify the maker as McLoughlin Bros.

    Our research has uncovered a handful of examples of this rare, American Toy Theater in museum / library collections and none include any “players” that would be used to put on the production and we believe that the Toy was originally sold as found here perhaps with the “actors” either being sold separately or else meant to be provided by the child who would play with the toy. We believe the Toy offered here is complete and as originally issued.

    This simply fantastic and exceptionally rare, ca1890 Children's Optical Toy / Toy Theater is in very good to excellent condition. The Stage construct itself is very well preserved - complete and intact with no damage or repairs of any kind. The chromolithography on the front of the stage, the side panels, the proscenium and the linen roll is stunningly beautiful – the colors are dark and bold, rich and warm and there is no significant wear, soiling or fading. The curtain even retains the delicate string used to roll it up under the arch! The stage, backdrops and side panels are all exceptionally well preserved with no soiling, wear, damage or repairs. The original box is also well preserved – intact and sound with separations at the flap corners on the lid and light edge wear. Overall this this wonderful Toy Theater / Optical Toy is well preserved and displays beautifully.

    This very rare and original, ca1890 Chromolithograph, Toy Theater / Optical Toy is offered here, as always, without reserve and with the confidence that it will attract the serious attention that he justly deserves. Good luck to all those interested!!!