The Steiff artist series of teddy bears will continue on next year with this preview into the 2010 spring release of a Porter Tanker-inspired version. Porter’s parent company Yoshida Kaban celebrates its 75th anniversary next year as its most iconic example of the Tanker forms the inspiration for this teddy bear. The bear itself is modeled closely to Steiff’s original 1908 style as it comes in a rarely seen black version comprised of Mohair. In the last year or so we’ve seen artist and brand collaborations involving Japanese fleece brand Loopwheeler and high-profile Chanel designer, Karl Lagerfeld. The reference to the Tanker series can be seen in the pads of the feet and hands withn its distinct orange hue. True to each Steiff release, the bear features a studded ear. Each instance of the run of 750 bears will include a serial numbered document of authenticity. The Porter Tanker x Steiff Teddy Bear will carry a suggested retail price of ¥44,940 JPY (approximately $501 USD) with a release slated for spring of 2010.