ADO - Toy ADO - 1950-1960 - Netherlands

Ko Verzuu – ADO Holland – 3 block bags with wooden blocks – 1950s – De Stijl design
Rare set of three original ADO block bags with (circa 53) wooden building blocks, designed by Ko Verzuu for ADO Holland (Arbeid door Onvolwaardigen) in the 1950s.

The sturdy canvas bags come in three different colors/variants: blue, red, and striped. Each bag contains original ADO wooden building blocks. Due to their strong graphic appearance and colors, these bags are not only beautiful toys, but also highly decorative mid-century design objects.

ADO was a special Dutch social workshop where toys were manufactured by people with disabilities. As a result, these objects have not only high collectible value, but also a special social and historical significance.

Ko Verzuu (1901–1971), full name Jacobus Johannes Josephus Verzuu, was the principal designer and artistic director of the ADO toys. From 1925 to 1955 he led the workshops at sanatorium Berg en Bosch, where patients were involved in toy production. Verzuu designed hundreds of models – from cars and trains to block sets and dollhouse furniture – with a recognizable design heavily influenced by De Stijl and the work of Gerrit Rietveld.

All three sets are in very nice vintage condition, with light signs of use appropriate to their age (see photos).

A rare opportunity to acquire three original ADO block bags at once – ideal for collectors of ADO toys, vintage toys, or mid-century design.

Details
• Designer: Ko Verzuu
• Manufacturer: ADO Holland (Arbeid door Onvolwaardigen)
• Object: block sets with canvas block bags
• Quantity: 3 pieces (blue, red, and striped)
• Period: 1950s
• Contents: original wooden ADO blocks
• Dimensions per bag: approx. 22 × 22 × 24 cm
• Condition: very good vintage state, see photos