Casting A Spell On This Darling Steiff Dachshund

What's in a (Steiff) name?  Sometimes big secrets!  Check out this note from a reader who asks about a beloved childhood friend with a most interesting moniker.  Tricia writes...

"Hi!

I'm hoping you can tell me if this is a Steiff Hexie dog.  

I've had it since I was a very little girl and don't remember it ever having that tag on it. Other than that, it's in really good shape. 

Your opinion would be greatly appreciated!   Regards, Tricia"

Gotta give Tricia the "Best In Show" for correctly identifying her darling doggie as Hexie.  This precious pooch is standing and made from short tan colored mohair that is accentuated with darker airbrushed highlights on his back, chest, and head.  Hexie's face is detailed with large, comical black and white google eyes and a hand embroidered nose and mouth.  All Hexies left the factory in Giengen, Germany with a red collar.  Overall, Hexie was produced in 9, 13, 20, and 25 cm from 1954 through 1974.  A 50 cm "studio" lifesized version was produced in 1960 only; this particular piece is very rare and on many collector's wish lists.  

Hexie is a popular and beloved Steiff design that is often confused with another darling Dachshund.  Around 1949-1950, Steiff introduced their first named postwar Doxie named Bazi. Bazi was produced both sitting and standing, as well as on wheels.   The standing mohair version of Bazi was produced in 10 and 14 cm from 1950 through 1975.  The biggest and most obvious difference between Hexie and Bazi are their eyes.   Hexie has goofy black and white google eyes, while Bazi has amber and black pupil eyes.  In general, Bazi is more lifelike than Hexie with "real dog" proportions.  The picture above shows a 10 cm Bazi (left) and 9 cm Hexie (right) for comparison.

So what's going on with the name game here?  It is interesting that this small and playful dog is named "Hexie."  In German, the world "Hexe" means "witch".  It is Steiffgal's very best guess that the name "Hexie" is based on a derivative of the word "Hexe."  Perhaps this Doxie is being "celebrated" for her ability to cast a loving (or mischievous...) spell on her owners.   

Steiffgal hopes this discussion of Steiff's Hexie has been a wickedly fun and interesting experience for you. 

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