One of WA's most loved private doll collections. Open By Appointment.
Celebrating Childhood: Annette Himstedt’s
Aug
13
At My Doll Cottage, over 100 exquisite creations by German doll artist Annette Himstedt bring a quiet sense of wonder to our displays. Known for her Barefoot Children series launched in 1986, Himstedt redefined dollmaking as fine art — blending realism, warmth, and innocence into every sculpted face. Her dolls, made with vinyl limbs, cloth bodies, human hair wigs, and strikingly lifelike eyes, were inspired by real children from around the world. Though her workshop closed in 2009, the spirit of Himstedt’s artistry continues to move collectors and visitors alike. Within the museum’s gentle light, these dolls remind us that art can capture not just a likeness, but the very essence of childhood itself.
At My Doll Cottage, we’re honoured to display over 100 works by the acclaimed German doll artist Annette Himstedt—each one a piece of living art inspired by real children and full of gentle, soul-stirring detail.
A Master Artist at Heart
Annette Himstedt began creating her legendary dolls in 1986, debuting the iconic "Barefoot Children" series. Over the next decade, her workshop in Paderborn became synonymous with handmade artistry and honesty, crafting dolls that felt alive and in tune with childhood.
Barefoot Children
Her dolls are well known for :
Porcelain dolls in early years, later joined by hard vinyl with swivel heads
Cloth torsos, vinyl limbs, inset eyes, human hair wigs, and bare feet—a formula that made each doll uniquely expressive and attainable for collectors.
Most of these dolls feature human hair wigs, real eyelashes, feathered eyebrows, and naturalistic vinyl skin.
Each doll featured
A signature on the back of the neck
A numbered lower back plate
Original wrist tags and matching clothing
A certificate of authenticity for limited editions
The Dolls on Display: What Makes Them So Special
At our museum, several of Himstedt’s major collections are represented, including beloved favorites like:
Sinchi, Ilai, Winni, and Akki—all part of annual character series from the 1990s to early 2000s
Dolls that show her interest in global culture, capturing the styles and personalities of children from around the world.
Whether bathed in bright reds or soft pastel tones, these dolls convey emotion—a tiny crease in her brow, the parting of lips in a shy smile, the expressive eyes that seem to follow you around the room.
Why This Matters
Himstedt’s dolls were iconic collectible art dolls until her workshop closed in 2009—though a few final pieces were released in 2009–10 as part of her “Farewell Collection”.
Today, they are treasured by collectors worldwide and rarely seen in public exhibits.
Our museum’s display offers a rare opportunity to:
See dolls hand-designed by the artist herself
Compare different years and series side by side
Appreciate the diversity of skin tones, facial structures, and expressions she captured
At MyDoll Cottage, our collection is framed not just by dolls—but by connection. Through Himstedt’s work, we honour childhood, cultural diversity, and the art of making something extraordinary out of clay, vinyl, fabric, and imagination. Each of her dolls is truly crafted with care, and visitors often pause in awe of the realism and personality each childlike figure holds.
Stay awhile. Let them watch you. And let the quiet of their presence tell you something about innocence, art, and memory.
With love Shyloh
Tales from the youngest daughter of adoll collector — raised on Milo, Vegemite, and more antiques than a country op shop.
