LEGO has teamed up with design specialists Room Copenhagen to pay tribute to the toy company’s original Wooden Minifigure, first released in 1978. Founded in 1932 by master carpenter Ole Kirk Kristiansen, the first LEGO toys were handcrafted from wood. His craftsmanship and attention to detail secured a high level of quality for the products, but when wood supplies became scarce in the aftermath of the Second World War, Ole started supplementing his production with plastic toys and the rest is history.
Speaking in 1950, Ole Kirk Kristiansen said: “I have always been committed to making the nicest and most robust objects, and just like other carpenters I believe the best type of advertising is when the product promotes itself. Our purpose is to produce a really good, solid and finely crafted piece of work, and ensure LEGO products always be known for their exceptional quality.”
Respecting the brand’s heritage as a producer of high-quality handmade wooden toys, this premium model is handcrafted from FSC-certified oak, with adjustable yellow plastic hands just like today’s LEGO Minifigures. The model measures over 7” (20cm) tall, 4” (11cm) wide and 3,5” (9cm) deep. The last LEGO product to combine both wood and plastic was the 1130 Bedford firetruck 60 years ago in 1959.
This 5:1 upscaled version of the classic LEGO Minifigure is presented in a premium gift box with a 28-page booklet featuring the history of the Minifigure and the story behind the development of this wooden model. Also included are inspiring examples of how LEGO designers personalized their models, as well as inspiration for accessories fans can build using the included LEGO bricks. A number of LEGO designers have already given their take on how to personalize the model, and the results will be exhibited for a limited time at the LEGO Originals Pop Up Store and Gallery in London.
Since its arrival in 1978, there have been over 8,000 different Minifigures launched, not to mention the many versions children have created themselves. This new edition is no exception. Owners are encouraged to unleash their creativity to decorate and customize the Minifigure in unique ways, display with pride at home or the office and share their creations via social media using #LEGOOriginals.
“It has been a privilege for us to expand our collaboration with The LEGO Group and contribute to the world premiere of a new series of design classics,” explains Jacob Eberhard, CEO of Room Copenhagen. “Going back to the roots of the company and helping to bring back some of the original LEGO toys in new creative ways is an exciting journey to be part of.”