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This cute Cocker Spaniel is none other than Revue Susi, who appeared in the Steiff catalog from 1959 through 1977. Revue Susi is 17 cm, sitting, made from blond mohair, and is head jointed. Her head is quite detailed; she has large plastic pupil eyes, airbrushed "eyebrows" and lips, pronounced doggy jowls, and floppy ears made of long, lush mohair. She has a red leather color and a very crisp bear faced chest tag with "Revue Susi" in block capital letters. Overall, Revue Susi was produced in 4 sizes - 12, 17, 28, and 35 cm.
Cocker Spaniels have been around more than a few "dog years" in the Steiff catalog. Spaniels debuted in 1908; four body models were produced through 1937. They then resurfaced in 1951 and the popular breed remains in the line to this day. Over 24 different Cocker Spaniels have appeared in the catalog post-war in practically every form imaginable-- standing, sleeping, reclining, as a music box, as a life-sized studio model, as a ride on toy, and even as a Nightcap Animal. (Steiff Nightcap Animals are mohair headed creatures with tent felt cone bodies used to hide small surprises for children. Nightcap Cockie - in her cheerful orange tulip'ed dress - is pictured here.) Interestingly, all of these various Cocker Spaniels are named Cockie.
So what's with unusual name? For some reason, Revue Susi is the only Cocker Spaniel with a name other than Cockie. Here's an educated guess why. "Revue" in German translates roughly to "show", so ...... perhaps Revue Susi was intended to be the "blue ribbon" of the breed?
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