The Salesman’s Trinket Suitcase

In the early 20th century, trinket salesmen appeared with their unfolding cases in congregated places, such as squares, as well as at the entrances to theatres or churches, to offer their wares. The small games and toys that the salesmen offered at very reasonable prices were extremely popular among children whose imagination gave the smallest of objects a whole world of meanings.

This case holds the samples of a trinket salesmen from the shop known as Bazar Tío Primo González de Arnedo in La Rioja. The incredible mishmash of small toys, fancy dress and party items, stickers, miniature stories, transfers, surprises and other trinkets make this piece a small museum in itself at the Toy Museum of Catalonia.