Discovering or Rediscovering Forgotten Toys

As vintage toy enthusiasts, we breathe new life into these often-patinated objects, which transport us back to childhood for a fleeting moment. Maison MYTIKA offers a curated selection of rare and antique toys, bringing together pieces that have left a lasting impression on young souls.

The History of Vintage Toys and Ancient Games: From Antiquity to the Present Day

Toys have been around since antiquity: archaeologists have discovered small terracotta animals on wheels dating back more than 2,000 years. As true museum pieces, their practical utility has given way to historical significance. Whether driven by a passion for antiques or childhood nostalgia, vintage games and toys are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts for a simple reason: they mirror the evolution of society.

The Evolution of Toys

Before the PlayStation®, smartphones, and tablets, there was the Game Boy®, but also—and above all—celluloid dolls, building blocks, dominoes, and plush toys. Created in a different era, these toys now appeal more to collectors than to children. In modern history, the toy industry has undergone two major shifts. The first transformation took place from the 19th century to the 1950s with the rise of industrialization: new techniques for wooden toys emerged, alongside the creation of figurines, dolls, and die-cast metal cars, thanks to advanced molding techniques. With the introduction of new materials (plastic, metal) and innovative manufacturing, distribution, and marketing techniques, toys finally became accessible and widely available. After the 1950s, children were no longer viewed as miniature adults, and toys were designed specifically for their developmental and psychological needs. This led to the concept of educational toys. It also marked the boom of remote-controlled robotic toys, such as "Robby the Robot" from the movie *Forbidden Planet*.

Vintage Toy Categories

• Wooden toys
• Model trains and locomotives
• Die-cast and miniature cars
• Antique dolls
• Metal and tin toys

The Most Sought-After Brands by Category

Antique Dolls and Baby Dolls

Petitcollin (One of the oldest French toy brands)