Renate Müller for H. Josef Leven KG

The plucked animal dromedary, manufactured by Sonneberger H. Josef Leven KG (Renate Müller), was presented for the first time at the 2nd toy fair in Leipzig in 1968. I attribute the original design (1956/1957) to Helga Belz, the revision to series production to Renate Müller.

This dromedary is completely preserved and equipped with leather saddlebags in blue and various straps.

It is a collectible rarity in good condition (see pictures).

The animals were originally used in therapy. The following text illustrates this:

Use and advantages of plucked animals in paediatric therapy
The plucked animals are mainly used to treat children between the ages of 2 and 8, and even up to the age of 10 for physically retarded children. They are particularly effective for movement disorders caused by brain damage. The focus is on promoting active movements, which can be made more difficult by muscle cramps, excessive motor reactions and impaired balance, coordination and drive. Therefore, playful movement stimuli are used, whereby the tested play animals and cubes have proven to be extremely suitable.

The friendly design of the animals immediately inspires confidence in children, which is crucial for the positive stimulating effect. The rough, non-slip surface of the soft toys not only provides durability, but also an important tactile stimulus that helps to relax cramped fingers, for example. The basic colours of the decorations offer a good balance between protection and an attractive appearance. The various attachments and bulges (e.g. duck's beak, rhinoceros, ears, tail, saddle bulge, cube edges, handles and loops) invite you to grasp and hold on.

The workmanship ensures dimensional stability and durability, which virtually eliminates injuries.

(from the test report of the Clinic for Rehabilitation at the Berlin-Buch Municipal Hospital, summer 1967)

Source: Helene Haeusler, The life and work of a toy designer, p. 56

Es handelt sich um eine sammelwürdige Rarität in gutem Zustand (siehe Bilder).