In 2015 I posted an obscure plastic bubble bath toy inspired by Jules Verne's Nautilus.
Peering further into Jules I discovered the designs and oeuvre of Czech Libuše Niklová described as the 'world queen of toys'. She is seen as an icon of accordion-based plastic toy design.
According to Wikipedia the Nautilus was a Vernian toy she designed for Fatra Napajedla in 1966. Niklová designed 3 toys based on Jules Verne’s novels: Nautilus, Albatros [from Robur the Conquerer] and Epouvante [the Terror from Master of the World]
Designed for Expo 1967 in Montreal, Canada, they didn't appear due to the previous Czech regime's politics [they were seen as too Western]. Eventually they got into production, the Nautilus in 1967, The Terror or Epouvante didn't get further than a prototype.
You can read more on the website devoted to this famous Czech designer.
There are quite a few video's featuring her work on You Tube like this one https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MktMAQvd518
Here are some pictures of the beautiful blue plastic Libuše Niklová Nautilus from the net.
Have you got one?
The Queen of accordion-based toy design. That is a pretty specialised niche. The Nautilus is a great design. A very interesting lady.
ReplyDeleteSounds like she was a genius Paul. I've seen toys like these. Classic designs.
DeleteA bit of trivia: In Finland they produced the kitten shown on the shoulder of Ms. Niklova, only twice the size. Both toys are dear to me - and you can really play them!
ReplyDeleteThat's fab Arto! Do you see here toy's at toy fairs and flea markets?
DeleteVery seldom indeed Woodsy. I have two Finnish ones and one Czech original. That's all in 20+ years!
DeleteI love that steampunk sub - never heard of it's designer or the toy before this. Very cool!
ReplyDeleteIt was fun finding about about her Ed. I think the sub toy is a scarce one.
DeleteThat slatted hull design instantly reminded me of the Czech fantasy film I knew as a child "The Fabulous world of Jules Verne".
ReplyDeleteI only just learnt it originally had a different name.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Invention_for_Destruction
Just blogged the film Looey!
Deletethat blue Nautilus is wonderful! Bill
ReplyDeleteBubble bath and a Nautilus! Fun times in the tub!
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