The story behind the Walter Bosse reissue
The revival of the Walter Bosse figures stemmed from the conviction that good design is timeless and should also appeal to new generations.
With his small brass figures, Walter Bosse created design objects of extraordinary expressiveness: lovingly crafted animals and figures that continue to fascinate to this day thanks to their clear design language, their character and their high-quality craftsmanship. His aim was to combine sophisticated design with broad accessibility – a philosophy that also shapes the reissue.
Today’s re-editions are based on Walter Bosse’s original moulds. These historic tools enable production that remains closely tied to the original design. The figures are not created as imitations or free interpretations, but as a respectful continuation of an Austrian design classic.
The Walter Bosse brand was showcased internationally via, amongst other platforms, the design platform Wien Products. At numerous international trade fairs – including in Tokyo, London, Paris and New York – the figurines were presented to a global audience of industry professionals. In Japan in particular, the combination of distinctive design, high-quality craftsmanship and an affordable price met with great acclaim. At a design fair in Tokyo, the concept of good design combined with an accessible price was honoured.
This international work led to the creation of a network of design retailers and distribution partners in various countries. The Walter Bosse figurines found their way to customers and collectors worldwide – as far afield as Asia, where they are still available today through international partners.
This reissue is not intended as a look back at times gone by, but as a continuation of a design philosophy: originality, quality and a responsible approach to a valuable cultural heritage.
Walter Bosse embodies the conviction that a well-designed object can stand the test of time. The re-editions carry this idea forward – with respect for the original and with the aim of making the distinctive aesthetic of these figures accessible to future generations.
On the rediscovery of Walter Bosse
Background & Expertise
Dagmar Moser, the operator of this website, was a founding member, co-owner and co-managing director of the renowned Viennese art dealership Lichterloh. For over three decades, Lichterloh dedicated itself to 20th-century Austrian and international design, with a particular focus on the 1920s to the 1970s.
In 2023, Dagmar Moser brought this long-standing collaboration to a close and took over the premises at the Vienna Brotfabrik, where she established LILO’S TEMPORARY as a new venue for design, art and cultural projects. At the same time, this website was relaunched.
Particular emphasis is placed on the small, almost comic-like designs by Walter Bosse, which the designer himself regarded as ‘pocket talismans’. These extraordinary figures showcase the playful yet timeless side of his work and form the centrepiece of this exhibition.