c.1947–1952 “My Dolly Nursing Set” 3-Piece Set Japan

This charming “My Dolly Nursing Set” is a post-war Japanese export toy dating to the Occupied Japan period (1947–1952), confirmed by markings on the accessories.The set includes a small jointed composition doll accompanied by a feeding bottle and miniature hot water bottle, all housed in the original cardboard presentation box. The doll features simple painted facial details and articulated limbs, typical of economical export dolls produced during this transitional manufacturing period.

The water bottle is formed from early plastics similar to vinyl or rubber but has hardened with age, and include moulded details designed to replicate real infant care items. The bottle is made of glass and the teet has deteriorated. Markings visible on the pieces—such as “Made in Japan” and numerical mould marks—are consistent with export production standards of the late 1940s to early 1950s. During this time, Japanese manufacturers produced large quantities of small, affordable toys for Western markets as part of economic recovery efforts following World War II.

Unlike earlier pre-war sets, items from the Occupied Japan period often show a mix of traditional materials like composition with newer plastics, reflecting both resource limitations and evolving production methods. These small nursing sets were designed to encourage nurturing play and were commonly sold as gift items. The survival of the original box adds significantly to the set’s appeal and collectability.

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Features

Measurements: •Box: 160 x 120 x 35 mm• Doll: 70 x 25 x 25 mm• Bottle: 75 x 45 x 25 mm• Hot Water Bottle: approx. 60 x 40 x 15 mm

Condition: Good - plastic has deteriorated

Markings: “Madein Japan,” numeric mould marks including “5” and “175”

Date Note: Date based on “Occupied Japan” designation (1947–1952) and construction materials. If you have further provenance, please contact us to assist with refining this record.

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