Mamma bear 1923 T-Shirt

Mamma bear checks the beds (1923) Leonard Leslie Brooke (English, 1862–1940)

This image is an illustration from the classic fairy tale Goldilocks and the Three Bears. It captures the moment when the three anthropomorphic bears—Papa Bear, Mama Bear, and Baby Bear—discover that someone has been in their bedroom. The scene is rich in detail, with the bears expressing surprise and curiosity. The bed is adorned with a colorful patchwork quilt, and a wooden dresser adds to the cozy, rustic setting.

The story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears has a fascinating history. It originated as a British fairy tale in the early 19th century. The earliest recorded version, published in 1837 by Robert Southey, featured an old woman instead of Goldilocks. Over time, the tale evolved, and the old woman was replaced by the mischievous young girl we know today. The story has been retold countless times, teaching lessons about respect for others' property and the consequences of one's actions.

The illustration itself is a classic example of early 20th-century children's book art, characterized by its detailed line work and vibrant use of color. It reflects the era's artistic style, which aimed to engage young readers with visually captivating scenes.