Artist/Maker Märklin (German, founded 1859)

Station

1895-1900

Metal, paint, glass

Overall: 13 1/2 × 19 1/4 × 10 3/4 in. (34.3 × 48.9 × 27.3 cm)

Jerni Collection, acquired with generous support from Bloomberg Philanthropies, Richard Gilder, and an anonymous donor

2014.31.4318a-c

Märklin’s 1895 toy station features a working chocolate dispenser. By pulling a small ring, children could enjoy a treat while at play. Prior to World War I, candy and train play went hand in hand, and a few German and French confectioners produced metal dispensers that doubled as toy railway accessories. Märklin partnered with Stollwerck, a Cologne-based chocolate company, to use their dispenser, which was repainted to match the station’s design. Known simply as “the Chocolate Station,” this station was discontinued after a few years. This example is among a small handful known to survive today.

DescriptionYellow station with rust red trim and faux brick outline attached to a green base with faux marbleized trim (a). Station has inset frosted glass paneled windows and attached frosted glass awning supported by two columns. Attached red and blue side awning. Gray bell signal. Brass bell with pull is attached to an elaborate "s" curve hook at the side of the station. Detachable green checkered roof with a yellow chimney and yellow clock tower with hand-painted clock face. Mauve chocolate dispenser with blue checkered rood and glass inset window (c). Painted in red on glass: "Casse". Painted on dispenser hood: "10 Pfening". Noted as Märklin's first station.

MarkingsUnmarked

ClassificationsTOYS

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