The father of the Hoptimist babies, Hans Gustav Ehrenreich trained as a cabinetmaker and was known for his wildly imaginative and creative approach to the everyday. A forever tinkerer, in 1969 he introduced a happy, boingy, infectious spring figure, the first of many bright, harmonious, meant-to-be-gifted creations that became a huge success and earned their place in the Danish design canon – file under: cute. And hop to it!
ITEM WE LOVE
What's cooler than a classic and retro Danish toy, meant to be gifted and to spread joy (like Hello Kitty, who was born in Japan around the same time), that's springy and special, fashioned in smooth wood meant to last for a long, long time? One that's ready for a black tie afair! This one's called the Groom but it could be Marlene Dietrich. Up to you. One thing's for cretain, nothing brings a smile like party time!
NOTEWORTHY
SMILEY COOL
Happy, joyful, drop-dead cool.
CAT
For cat lovers or the severely allergic, this kitty makes a playful lucky new member of any household.
BUMBLE VIKING
Here comes Bumble the Viking! His head warms the iron helmet, which with horns and splendor tell the crew he's captain.