Essential Tips for Beginner Antique Doll Collectors

How to Spot Repaired or Damaged Bisque Dolls.

Antique German 23” Simon Halbig Santa 1249 DEP Bisque Head Doll

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Collecting antique dolls can be a rewarding hobby, but it's essential to know how to spot potential issues when making a purchase. Here are some crucial tips to help beginner collectors identify repaired or damaged antique dolls.

Buy from Experienced and Reputable Dealers 

Established dealers are your first line of defense against purchasing flawed dolls. They are trained to spot repairs or damage and are more likely to disclose any issues before offering the doll for sale.

Bisque crack

Inspect the Doll Yourself

While trusting the dealer is important, it's equally essential to conduct your inspection. Take a close look at all the photos and carefully read the description.  You can also ask the dealer to remove the wig and examine the doll's head under a strong light. Bisque is translucent, allowing you to spot any cracks or repairs easily.

Wig pull to the forehead

Know What to Look For

Not all flaws are equal. Surface lines or firing lines in bisque heads are common and usually don't affect the doll's value. However, hairline/cracks extending from edges or openings, especially around vulnerable areas like eyes, ears, crown, and neck socket, can significantly impact value.

Production kiln crack

Firing lines are commonly found behind the ears and appear as dark lines. A common term for this defect is “kiln crack”.

Another point of concern when examining bisque parts is the presence of so-called “chips”.

Bisque chip

These are small pieces of bisque that have chipped off and are considered damage.

“Wig pulls” refer to flat flakes that sometimes occur on bisque when removing the original wig. These are not considered as significant as other flaws in the bisque.

Examine Eyes Carefully

Eyes are a focal point of antique dolls and can hide potential issues. While shining a light inside the head won't reveal defects due to the plaster blocking the light, visually inspecting the eyes for chips or abnormalities is crucial.

Small flake to the earlobe hole

Be Wary of Repairs

Detecting repairs can be challenging, but there are signs to look out for. Chalky residue, shiny areas, or off-color patches may indicate repair work. Additionally, fuzzy eyebrows or irregularly spaced eyelashes could be red flags.

Special Attention to Solid Dome Heads

Solid dome heads pose a unique challenge as you can't shine a light into them without removing the head from the body. Pay close attention to inconsistencies in paint thickness or the direction of painted hair.

Check the Body for Flaws

Don't forget to inspect the doll's body for flaws as well. Look for cracks, chips, or repairs, especially in areas prone to damage, such as joints or extremities. Additionally, pay attention to the doll's stringing, which refers to the method used to attach the limbs to the body. Stringing tends to lose its elasticity over time, and the doll can be difficult to pose.

This hairline to the bisque is not visible without light

Private Purchases

When buying from private sellers, take extra care to inspect the doll thoroughly. Be respectful but thorough during the examination and be cautious of tightly glued wigs that may be hiding damage.

By following these guidelines and being diligent in your inspection, you can reduce the risk of purchasing a repaired or damaged antique doll at a high price. Remember, knowledge is your most potent tool when it comes to collecting antique dolls.

Unearthing the Charm of Antique German Dolls: A Timeless Legacy

Antique German dolls have an undeniable allure that transcends time. These exquisite creations from the late 19th and early 20th centuries hold a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. From their delicate porcelain features to their elaborate costumes and accessories, German dolls encapsulate the craftsmanship and artistry of a bygone era.

Gebruder Heubach Bisque Head Character Boy Dolls including Laughing boy marked 6736, Pouty doll marked 7602 and Whistling Jim marked 8774

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The story of antique German dolls begins in the early 19th century, when Germany was a major hub for doll production. Germany's skilled artisans, particularly in the Thuringian region, played a pivotal role in shaping the doll-making industry. These artisans crafted dolls from various materials, including porcelain, bisque, composition, and papier-mâché, each with its unique charm.

Porcelain dolls, often referred to as "china dolls," were among the earliest creations. They featured hand-painted faces and delicate, bisque heads, making them highly sought after by collectors today. The 1850s saw the emergence of bisque dolls, which quickly gained popularity due to their affordability and lifelike appearance. These dolls boasted intricately detailed faces and were often dressed in elaborate costumes, reflecting the fashion of the time.

Simon & Halbig molds marked 1009 (on the left) and 1250

The late 19th century marked the peak of the German doll-making industry, with renowned companies like Gebrüder Heubach, Armand Marseille, and Simon & Halbig producing some of the most coveted dolls in history. These manufacturers set the standard for quality and innovation, introducing features such as sleep eyes, articulated limbs, and realistic hair wigs.

View / Buy Antique German Dolls on Sale

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Kestner - Among the renowned makers of antique German dolls, Kestner is a name that shines brightly. Established in 1804 by Johann Daniel Kestner, the Kestner doll company quickly gained recognition for its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Kestner dolls were characterized by their finely sculpted bisque heads, lifelike stationary or sleep eyes, and elaborate costumes. The company was a pioneer in the use of bisque, a type of porcelain, for doll heads, resulting in dolls with remarkable realism and exquisite features. Kestner dolls are highly prized by collectors for their artistic merit and the quality of their craftsmanship.

Kestner dolls mold numbers 143 (center), 167 (right), XI on the left.

Gebrüder Heubach - Another prominent name in the world of antique German dolls is Gebrüder Heubach. Known for its fine bisque doll production, Gebrüder Heubach dolls often featured expressive faces and intricate detailing. The firm was celebrated for its artistic contributions and its legacy in the doll-making industry.

Armand Marseille - Armand Marseille is yet another iconic doll manufacturer associated with the golden age of doll production. The company produced a wide range of dolls, including beloved bisque-head dolls noted for their lifelike features. Marseille's dolls were often used as models for aspiring doll artists and have a special place in the hearts of collectors.

Simon & Halbig - Simon & Halbig, a prestigious manufacturer, were renowned for producing high-quality bisque-head dolls with impeccable craftsmanship. Their dolls were known for their expressive features, delicate painting, and attention to detail, making them highly sought-after by collectors.

Kämmer & Reinhardt - This distinguished doll company was celebrated for its character dolls, which portrayed children and babies with realistic expressions. Kämmer & Reinhardt's dolls often featured distinctive faces that captured the essence of childhood innocence.

Kammer & Reinhardt dolls. Model marked 403 - Kammer Reinhardt mechanical walker doll (center). Simon & Halbig Kemmer & Reinhardt Flirty Eyes Doll (left)

Heinrich Handwerck - Known for their quality, Heinrich Handwerck dolls are highly regarded by collectors.

Antique German dolls are more than just collectibles; they are windows into the past. These dolls provide valuable insights into the social and cultural norms of their time. The clothing, hairstyles, and accessories of these dolls offer a glimpse into the fashion trends of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as well as the evolving role of women and children in society.

Moreover, antique German dolls have played a significant role in the development of the toy industry. Their production techniques and design innovations laid the foundation for the modern doll-making industry, influencing subsequent generations of doll makers.

What makes antique German dolls so enchanting, even to this day? Several factors contribute to their enduring appeal:

Craftsmanship: German doll makers were renowned for their attention to detail and craftsmanship. Each doll was carefully sculpted and painted by skilled artisans, resulting in lifelike features and exquisite facial expressions.

Diversity: The German doll industry produced a wide variety of dolls, catering to different tastes and budgets. From small all bisque dolls to large composition dolls with bisque heads, there is a German doll for everyone.

Historical Value: Antique German dolls offer a tangible connection to the past. Owning one is like holding a piece of history in your hands.

Aesthetic Beauty: German dolls are not just toys; they are works of art. Their intricately designed costumes and accessories showcase the fashion and style of their respective eras.

Identifying Antique German Dolls

Identifying antique German dolls can be a fascinating endeavor for collectors and enthusiasts. One key aspect of this process is deciphering the marks that can be found on these dolls. German doll manufacturers often stamped or marked their creations with specific symbols, numbers, or letters that provide valuable clues about the doll's origin and age. To effectively identify a doll based on these marks, collectors should consult reference books or online resources that catalog and explain these markings in detail. Pay attention to markings on the doll's back, neck, or head, as well as any labels on the bodies. These marks can reveal the doll maker, production year, and sometimes even the doll's series or model, offering a glimpse into the rich history of German doll craftsmanship. Careful examination and research are essential for gaining insight into the unique characteristics of each antique German doll and understanding its place in the world of doll collecting.

Here are some examples of identification marks:

Made is Germany 146 - Kestner doll mold 146

S 9 H 1009 DEP - Simon & Halbig doll mold 1009

Germany 980 A 0 M D.R.G.M. - Armand Marseille mold 980 character baby

Collecting Antique German Dolls

If you're interested in collecting antique German dolls, here are a few tips to get you started:

Research

Familiarize yourself with the various types of German dolls, manufacturers, and their historical context.

Condition Matters

Pay attention to the condition of the doll. Originality and minimal restoration are highly prized by collectors.

Authentication

Ensure that the doll's authenticity is verified by experts or reputable dealers.

Budget

Set a budget for your collection and stick to it. Antique German dolls can vary widely in price.

Display

Display your dolls in a way that preserves their condition and protects them from dust and sunlight.

Antique German dolls are more than just playthings; they are cherished artifacts that encapsulate the artistry, history, and culture of a bygone era. Their timeless appeal continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts, making them highly sought-after treasures in the world of antiques. As you embark on your journey into the world of antique German dolls, remember that each doll has a unique story to tell, waiting to be discovered and appreciated for generations to come.

Visit our store for a great selection of antique German dolls on sale!

Wood and Porcelain Wonders. The Dolls of Lynne and Michael Roche Reflect a Seamless Collaboration

Take careful look at a doll made by Lynne and Michael Roche. You'd never guess that two individuals had worked hand in hand to create it. Beautifully designed, elegantly proportioned and carefully crafted, each Roche doll is a meticulous piece of art.

BY CELIA SANDERSON

Source: February 2001 • Doll Reader , Pages 54-55

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Married for 22 years, the Roches are embarking now on their 21st year as a doll making duo. Their harmonious convergence of talent combines Lynne's training as an artist with Michael's expertise as a woodworker.

"Michael does the wood and ceramic parts of the bodies," relates Lynne. "I create the model for the head, paint the dolls and design their clothes. Michael comes in toward the end and works on it and makes the masters and molds."

Ellie (right) and Louisa are 19 inches tall. Dressed for winter in naturally dyed wools, hand-knitte jerseys, bonnets and scarves, they have soft, curly mohair wigs and glass eyes. Ellie wears a jumper wil appliques inspired by the illustrations of the peg-wooden doll books by 19th-century British author Florence K. Upton. Louisa's jumper features aboligues of velvet and silk pansies on her bib and bag. Seen here as available in numbered editions, Emily and Louisa also will appear in limited editions wearing different clothes and accompanied by 1930s-style prams.

Collectors are attracted to the nostalgic quality of Roche dolls. Lynne says that she gets ideas for her dolls' clothing from the past and from fairy tales. "Generally, they hark back to the period of my childhood from the 1950s and 1960s. I grew up in a suburban setting outside of London.

Her dolls often wear knitted clothing. "I really don't like using fancy silks and lace," she relates. "The dolls wear day-to-day clothes, but they sometimes are a bit more fanciful. I use a lot of cloth that has been naturally dyed, and I mix appliqués and embroidery for the detailing along with other things that interest me."

Lynne describes the dolls' clothing as conservative. "There is at times some kind of restraint about the clothing that appeals to me the mixture of using woolens and cottons and natural sorts of fibers. I like layered things."

It's important to both Lynne and Michael that the clothes not overwhelm the doll.

"We think it's essential that we keep the clothes in proportion to the size of the doll. The bodies are very important to our dolls, and they must articulate well when they wear the clothes."

The Roches also create dolls with porce. lain heads and hands and bodies made of cloth. Lynne designs the bodies of the cloth dolls. Molly is a new baby doll who is loosely jointed at the shoulders and hips. She is available in four different costumes that represent flowers, including Anemone (left), Daffodil (right), Bluebell, and Rose.

How well the dolls articulate is Michael's department. A former furniture restorer and maker, he produces the beautifully shaped pieces that, when put together, comprise a Roche doll.

"The shapes are very traditional," he says of his dolls' bodies. "We use wood whereas doll makers around the turn of the 20th century used composition for the bodies. I used to use a mixture of woods that worked for different parts of the body. We mostly painted the bodies at first. People started saying that they liked seeing the wood so we stopped painting them."

Nowadays, Michael carves the bodies from lime wood. "It works well for carving and has a nice, close grain, so I use lime now exclusively." "Its got a pale color, too," adds Lynne.

Lynne says that she looks to antique dolls for inspiration for body shapes. "We're very influenced by the old dolls. I collect antique dolls and undress them and look at the bodies. There are so many different and fascinating body shapes and mate-rials. I think that's why bodies have always been important to us."

In the mysterious ways that artists work, Lynne's fascination with antique dolls somehow transfers into Roche dolls. Barrie and Danny Shapiro, proprietors of The Toy Shoppe in Rich-mond, Virginia, have offered the Roches' dolls in America for many years, and, Barrie observes, "Not only collectors of fine contemporary artists seek Lynne and Michael's work, but so do people who know and collect rare antique dolls.

While Roche dolls are not meant as toys for children, Lynne says, "I always think of my dolls as dolls that you actually can play with. That really is important. I always enjoy hearing from people that they change the clothes, make clothes for them and change their positions. Quite a lot of dolls are hands off. You hardly can touch them.

Louisa, undressed except for her panties, displays the craftsmanship that goes into each wood and porcelain doll created by Lynne and Michael Roche. The wood portions of the doll are made of lime wood. Lynne designs the porcelain face of each doll, and Michael carries out the molding process. Michael creates the doll parts that are wooden.

I like the idea that ours can be han-dled-that they're more like dolls than sculptural pieces. We love receiving pictures of groupings of our dolls that people have arranged we get many during the holidays.

The Roches create their dolls in their 18th-Century yellow-colored sandstone house in the city of Bath. The city, originally home to Michael's parents, appeals to them artistically. "Its a very harmonious place to live visually," says Lynne. "It has hills all around it so it doesn't sprawl out. You can get into the countryside very easily. And it's a small enough city that you actually can walk around it very easily." “It only takes a quarter of an hour to walk from one side of the city to the other, adds Michael.

Not only is Bath surrounded by hills, but it also contains a few, and the Roches live on one.

"Our hill is about five to 10 minutes from the center of the city walking down the hill and about 20 minutes walking back up," laughs Lynne.

Lynne and Michael's house on a hill contains a ceramics room and a woodworking shop in the basement.

"We have a garden and fish in a pond," says Lynne. "Our house is filled with dolls. It's a lovely place to live and work."

In addition to fish in a pond and many dolls, the Roches have cats- five of them. "There are cats all over our studio," describes Lynne. "I work in one room that has two baskets, and there usually is one cat in each of them." Occasionally, cat motifs find their way onto the clothing of the Roches' dolls.

When they're not making dolls, the Roches are seeking inspiration for new ones. They enjoy long weekends looking for antique dolls in Paris. Since they appreciate furniture, they also make frequent trips to the American Museum just outside Bath. "They have room settings going back to Colonial times, ," says Lynne, and a facsimile of George Washington's garden.

"It's kind of our favorite place to escape."

The fact that Lynne and Michael share their free time together helps unify their artistic vision. Ultimately, their dolls, and collectors, benefit. As Barrie Shapiro says, “Sometimes in the world of art and creativity, there is a magic that happens when a husband and wife work together. Lynne and Michael Roche are an excellent example of how one partner contributes and interacts with the other and how their work is made special because of that."