Antique mid-19th century wood and papier-maché doll

These dolls are sometimes referred to as 'Milliners' Dolls' resembling ladies modelling the latest fashions in clothing and coiffures, and were not intended as play objects (though after they had served their fashion purpose, many inevitably ended up in nurseries to serve as play dolls)

It is somewhat doubtful however that these items were ever used as Dressmakers' or Milliners' models for a number of reasons:

- they were too small to enable patterns to be created from them

- the clothes were not easily removable for making patterns

- the dolls themselves are difficult to dress and undress due to their stiff bodies 

These dolls are sometimes referred to as 'varnished heads' but most experts would now accept that the proper term for this type of doll is, 'papier-maché doll with wooden arms and legs'

This particular doll is distressed - no attempt has been made to restore this item as my belief is that an object should be allowed to show its age.

Please view the photographs carefully as they are an integral part of the description

Included with the doll is:

- a doll stand

- a glass dome with circular wooden stand

This item dates to c.1850

Delivery will be via UPS just to mainland UK, but personal collection from Buntingford (East Herts. SG9) is most welcome

Please see my other items which are predominantly 18th and 19th century in date