If you didn't have a couple thousand extra bucks kicking around when the limited-edition Eames plywood elephant was reissued last year, not to worry. Vitra is about to release the elephant in kid-friendly polypropylene with a much friendlier price tag.
The original Eames Elephant, designed in 1945, holds a special place in design history. Charles and Ray Eames were fascinated by elephants and designed theirs to serve as both a children's toy and a sculptural object. They produced only two prototypes, which were both displayed at the Museum of Modern Art. Only one remains today, in the Eames family's private collection.
$290 at Design Public (Pre-orders are being accepted now for January 2009 delivery.)
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Although this is still a little out of my budget, it might be a splurge item... I collect elephants (trunks up only, but this would be an exception), squirrels, and owls. I am happy they made this a more affordable option.
I love it. But perhaps it is just me.... I wouldn't really call $300 affordable. Cheaper than the original? Indeed. But affordable?
I have a 5 year old that would play with it for like 2 hours and "never look at it again" minutes.
$300 is affordable but it would be a waste. My daughter pushed her Nintendo Ds, Barbie Radio control car aside but still plays with my niece in a huge cardboard box.
affordable, no. useful, maybe not. but so cute! also would make a cute plant stand.
We bought this when it was offered here. My 3 year old played with it for a short while, after which it became an ornament. Nevertheless, its a very nice ornament to have in the house.
Check out the unboxing photos here:
http://partsandpc.blogspot.sg/2013/03/charles-and-ray-eames-elephant.html