Summary

Alternative Name(s): Sofa, Chair

Toy settee made by Mrs Johanna Harry Hillier, nee Gyles, circa 1929-1935, from MacRobertson's Max Mint wrappers of waxed paper, printed with a diamond shape in blue and orange with a background of red and blue zig-zag lines.

Mrs Hillier came to Australia from England in 1881. She was a milliner by trade and made a set of these toys for each of three grandchildren. She began by making the fans and then progressed to a variety of other toys.

Physical Description

Doll size setee made from Max Mints confectionary cardboard box, part covered in Max mints paper wrappers. Settee is approximately a two seater in length with curved back trimmed with pink fabric. Setee arms are small ane low reaching to mid point of seat. Round cushion on left hand side of seat made from ruched pink fabric edged with Max Mints paper ruffle and small blue flower with yellow centre in middle.

Significance

Reason for Acquisition: Mrs Johanna Hillier of Geelong made these toys from the wrapping papers of 'Max Mints', between c.1929 - 1935. The toys, and others not on display, were made for her grand-daughter, and show an incredible attention to detail. There's a wardrobe for each doll, full of clothes, shoes and hats; there are pieces of furniture, and there is even a line of washing to be hung out. Her grand-daughter remembers that the toys were only played with on Sundays, under supervision. [Label for the 'To make something new' display.]

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