c.1900–1910 Gebrüder Kühnlenz Mould 170 Bisque Shoulder-Head Doll – Germany
A c.1900–1910 German Gebrüder Kühnlenz mould 170 doll featuring a bisque shoulder head, blue glass eyes, blonde wig, kid leather body and bisque lower arms, dressed in an elaborate black period-style costume with pink trim.
This elegant antique doll was manufactured in Germany by Gebrüder Kühnlenz, a porcelain and doll manufacturer established in Kronach, Bavaria, in 1884 by brothers Julius, Bruno and Cuno Kühnlenz. The company produced both complete dolls and bisque doll heads in numerous sizes and styles and exported asubstantial proportion of its production overseas.
The doll's bisque shoulder head carries the impressed Gbr 170 K marking, identifying her as Gebrüder Kühnlenz mould 170. The arrangement of the manufacturer's initials around the mould number is consistent with an early Kühnlenz marking documented on surviving doll heads. Mould 170 is also included among the recognised Kühnlenz mould numbers.
She has a delicately modelled pale bisque face with softly blushed cheeks, painted eyebrows and eyelashes, blue glass eyes and a small open mouth with visible upper teeth. A blonde wig is fitted over the head; the photographs reveal the wig's textile foundation and attachment beneath the hat. Its originality cannot be established from photographs alone.
Unlike the later socket-head dolls commonly mounted on composition bodies, this doll has a bisque shoulder head attached to a kid leather body. This was an established form of doll construction during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, and other surviving Gebrüder Kühnlenz dolls are documented with shoulder heads and kid leather bodies. The lower arms and finely moulded hands appear to be bisque, while the body itself is leather. The inscription “Royal” is stamped on the leather body.
She is dressed in a striking long black gown with gathered bodice, full sleeves andskirt, complemented by a pink sash and matching black and pink hat decoratedwith ribbon and flowers. Beneath the gown are a cream under garment, pink knitted stockings and small shoes. The costume presents very well and may itself have considerable age, but it is unknown if it is original.
The doll appears generally well preserved for her age. The bisque visible in the photographs appears sound, while the clothing displays expected age-related wear, particularly to the black fabric beneath the skirt.
Features
Measurements: 270h x 80w x 50d mm
Condition: Very Good -
Markings: Gbr170 K; kid leather body reportedly marked “Royal”
Date Note: Date is an estimate based on available research and stylistic features. If you have additional information, please contact us to help update our records.
Made from the following materials
Cloth dolls and toys have a rich history, rooted in the traditions of various cultures around the world. Made primarily from fabric, these dolls are characterized by their soft textures, vibrant colors, and the use of various sewing techniques. The creation of cloth dolls dates back centuries, often reflecting the cultural heritage and artistic expressions of the communities that produce them.
Historically, cloth dolls were often handmade by mothers and grandmothers as toys for children, using scraps of fabric and other materials available in the household. These dolls were not only sources of comfort and play but also served as tools for teaching children about sewing and crafting. The diversity of fabrics used—ranging from cotton and wool to silk and felt—allowed for endless creativity in design, giving rise to a multitude of styles and forms.
Cloth dolls often embody the characteristics of the culture from which they originate. For instance, traditional rag dolls from the United States were typically made from leftover fabric and filled with scraps, while Japanese Kokeshi dolls are simple wooden dolls often painted with floral designs. In many cultures, cloth dolls have also served ceremonial purposes, being used in rituals or as representations of important figures.
In the modern era, cloth dolls have seen a resurgence in popularity, particularly among those who appreciate handmade and artisanal items. Contemporary artisans create unique cloth dolls that often incorporate modern design elements while honoring traditional techniques. These dolls may feature intricate stitching, detailed facial expressions, and a variety of clothing styles, making them appealing to collectors and children alike.
Today, cloth dolls and toys continue to be cherished for their tactile quality and the personal touch that comes from being handmade. Their ability to convey warmth, creativity, and cultural significance makes them timeless treasures in the world of toys, offering both play and connection to the rich history of doll making.
Composition
Composition dolls and toys represent a unique chapter in the history of doll-making, particularly prominent from the early 20th century until the mid-20th century. These dolls are crafted from a mixture of materials, primarily wood pulp, sawdust, and other additives, which are then pressed and molded into shapes. This innovative process allowed for the mass production of dolls and toys that were more affordable and durable than their porcelain or clay counterparts.
The composition material was designed to mimic the look and feel of more expensive materials while being lighter and less fragile. These dolls often featured painted facial details, painted hair, and fabric bodies, making them accessible to a broader audience. Because of their affordability, composition dolls became extremely popular during the Great Depression, as families sought quality toys at reasonable prices.
Dolls made from composition often reflect the styles and fashions of the eras in which they were created. Many classic designs include baby dolls with chubby cheeks, elegant fashion dolls, and character dolls based on popular culture. The versatility of composition allowed for a wide range of expressions and poses, making these dolls appealing to children and collectors alike.
However, as synthetic materials and plastics emerged in the mid-20th century, the popularity of composition dolls began to decline. Over time, the composition material was found to be less durable than other options, leading to issues like chipping and cracking, especially when exposed to moisture. Today, many collectors seek out vintage composition dolls for their historical significance and the nostalgia they evoke.
Composition dolls and toys remain an important part of the history of doll making, showcasing the evolution of materials and techniques used to create cherished playthings. At our museum, we celebrate these dolls not only for their craftsmanship but also for the stories they tell about the times and cultures in which they were made.
Additional Product Images
Related Dolls and Toys from our collection
