Another Phony Pony!

 Thanks to Diana Dubbeld, I have another phony pony in my collection!

Knowing my love of circus ponies, she alerted me to a Shiken, Kelvin, or Bradley that was listed on eBay.

At only $16, I didn't even think - I bought the pony then and there. 

Shiken, Kelvin, and Bradley made a variety of these, including one that is a copy of Hagen Renaker's early Head Up Circus Pony, even in the same color of black and white. I started calling these Phony Ponies as a result.

Shiken put their name on the labels. My new piece's label simply says "Bone China Japan" so I am reasonably sure it was not made by Shiken.

Kelvins have long, straight plumes and a different eye, plus the name is on the label - doubtful that this is a Kelvin.

That leaves the possibility of a Bradley or an unknown company. The eyes are similar as is the harness but the labels don't match.

The piece above is in a reference book of mine, paired with my new piece, but there is a blank spot where the company should be listed. Apparently the author could not figure it out either.

But I'm not too worried about tracking down the company. They make me happy regardless.

They are fun to play around with and since they are inexpensive, I don't worry too much about possibly breaking them. (I'm still careful, of course.)

Can you spot the real Hagen Renaker in this group of Head Up Ponies? (Hint: Check out the hooves.)

I've even taken some of my phony ponies to shows. With that many (I don't know any more; I really should count how many phonies I have now) there are opportunities for scenes and other fun.

I did well with this entry about the Phony Pony Circus at a GLC show a few years ago.

Thanks so much, Diana, for sending me that link. I love these cute knock offs, and am so glad to add another to my collection!