Carmel Doll Shop -Early Dolls-



Part of the wonder of English Peddlers, is admiring the assortment of items they offer for sale in their baskets. This example is the variety store of peddlers, as she clearly does not specialize. She, by herself, is certainly worthy of admiration, as she is not only spectacular at fifteen inches tall overall, her condition is truly amazing. Remember, her large size is remarkable for a doll of the wooden articulated body variety (minor loss to point of toe on left foot). Born around 1845, a German wooden from the Grodnertal, she made her way to England where she was given a marvelous printed cotton dress, waffle weave apron, red wool cape, requisite black silk bonnet, a tray of wares and then put into service. This hard worker still enjoys her work a century and a half later – note her smile. As explained above, this merchant doesn't specialize as she prefers to have something for everyone, be it a copper jug, a bolt of colorful cotton, a carved wood animal or a crochet wall pocket. Just don't forget her motto and the smile will remain on her pretty face for years to come; "Admire yes, but please don't touch the merchandise." $4500.00



Standing a mere nine and one-half inches tall, is a miniature Georgian Wooden with grand personality! Circa 1780, this example boasts an all original paint finish with normal wear and what appears to be the original wefted mohair wig. On a rolled linen body with coarse cotton covered arms, with cotton-covered paper fingers, this regal lady wears a dress of period silk brocade, that appears to have retained most of its original trimmings, and the matching cap of lace and silk (quite distressed) is truly remarkable. Ready to take up residence in your early dollhouse or doll vignette, this is one example that will need to be seen front and center in the main salon, as this is no ordinary kitchen wench! SOLD Thank you, C.



Arguably, one of the rarest China examples we have had the pleasure to own, chances are not many of you advanced china collectors have had the opportunity to acquire one either – now is your chance! Details of this sixteen-inch tall early rarity include a lovely shoulderhead which boasts expressive painted features and perfect coloring. The modeling of the head includes a stylish molded hat (small flake to upper edge on reverse) that is ornamented with two colorful plumes, plus a bow on one side and a loop of hair revealed on the other. On what we suspect could be her second original handmade cloth body, it is inscribed with the words “Made by H.Z. Migill” and the date of “1853”. It is most likely her second body, as it seems to us, she would clearly pre-date the year 1853. The two-piece ensemble of silk brocade is flattering, with its abundant use of deep red tape and metallic lace, while wonderful two-tone leather boots complete her presentation. Do not hesitate, this amazing china is well worth the investment. Please click here to view "au naturel" details $17,500.00



18-1/2” German China, a lovely and perfect Covered Wagon model whose origins we attribute to the J. D. Kestner firm. Worthy of special mention are her exquisite brown-painted eyes that feature amazing detail, including highlight dots which add abundant personality. Note also that her nicely shaped mouth is painted into a pleasing smile and her cheeks are beautifully blushed. On a shapely antique cloth body with leather arms, this unusual china is beautifully costumed in a gorgeous two-piece ensemble of soft green silk and silk stripe, that is worn over a cotton blouse. A classic china in a very appealing size. Please click here to view details "au naturel" $1895.00

	Izannah Walker

A very special model born of pure, honest, and simple materials is this twenty-inch Izannah Walker. Like many of her sisters, Izannah is a survivor of who knows how many childhoods, but comparatively speaking, this doll is in quite nice condition. Izannah retains lovely painted brown hair, albeit with scattered losses. There is a center part, with a profusion of wisps at her temples, and ringlets at the nape of her neck. Do not miss her wonderfully detailed applied ears. Of special note, her multi-hued brown eyes are largely intact. Because of this, we are able to see the fine details of the liner, and that the brows were feathered! The soft blush of her cheeks is right there in plain sight, while her shaped nose shows the wear of being nuzzled for decades. The stuffed body shows normal wear and repair, and her arms with long fingers are in very good condition, although her black-painted boots do show considerable wear. Izannah is beautifully outfitted in a tan cotton dress, with fine piping and off-white soutache trim. If you have been yearning for an Izannah, there may be no need to look further, as this monochromatic beauty says she is "the one". Please click here to view details "au naturel" SOLD




It is rare enough to find a single all original French papier-mache example, so you can imagine our delight to stumble upon a pair! The young lady stands sixteen and one-half inches tall, while the gentleman is slightly larger at seventeen inches. This pair is in a very good state of preservation, both dolls have inset pupil-less glass eyes, open mouths with teeth, good coloring and delicate painted details. Each of the pair is on a leather body, with slight variations from one to the other. She is on an all-leather body that features a pink tint, and arms with individually stitched fingers, while her male companion is on a leather body with simply carved wooden hands. Both dolls would have (most likely) been fitted with human hair wigs worn over their painted hair, and down the road, if desired, something appropriate could be fitted once again. We were told their marvelous original regional costumes denoted them as being from the South of France – Arles to be exact. In addition, we understand they are costumed in wedding attire. With a little research, this could be confirmed and appropriate headwear could be found or created for the two. We understand the gentleman would have worn a knitted cap which might resemble a night cap with a tassel. What we do know for absolute certain, is that this colorful pair represents a happy marriage – their long lifetimes spent easily, and happily – together, and together they shall remain. $6800.00


Classic "Curly-Top" China child shoulderhead featuring a mass of molded black curls (note some rubs to curls), nice depth and detail to her large eyes, beautiful complexion with rosy cheeks, painted nostril circles and most important....a sweet expression. Measures: 6" tall. $250.00

Provincial Shell Couple

Pair of Shell Dolls, (German woodens from the Grodner Tal) that are in our opinion, the perfect size at eight and one-half inches. Circa 1830, the pair is strikingly different from other shell doll examples we have seen, as this couple depicts a very foreign-appearing duo, largely due to their headdresses and "clothing" styles.
Note the gentleman, who smokes a pipe, while his companion attends to her spinning. Rare and exotic, their overall condition is good, due to scattered losses.
The perfect addition to your early doll collection, from the former Collection of John Darcy Noble.

Measure: Twelve inches with the dome in place.

$3500.00



12-5/8 inches of light and airy originality is this German papier-mâché Milliner' Model, circa 1835-40. This early all-original example boasts a luxurious hairstyle, featuring abundant molded ringlets, and additional painted swirls of curly locks, directly onto the back of the shoulders. Special features include her rare brown eyes, healthy pink cheeks, and exposed ears. On the typical leather body style with carved wooden arms (light flaking) and legs which are fitted with carved and gold painted slippers, her original presentation includes a two-piece costume of cream chintz, with an overlay of net, accented by ribbon trim, plus a sash and bows in pale yellow silk. Her original under things of simple cotton feature sweet cutwork upon the pantalets. The perfect opportunity to acquire an all original early doll! $1850.00

"Priscilla"



We think it's magical to be able to see how dolls were originally packaged in the nineteenth century, and therefore preserved. This amazing, seventeen-inch, English Poured Wax provides us all with that rare opportunity – in a doubly big way. Not only does this petite bride retain her original pasteboard box – the outer wooden packing crate is there, as well. A label on the inner box reads "Doll – Don't Crush" in lovely old penmanship – while the outer box bears a card which reads: "Mrs. F. Discou & Miss J.E. Discou Wentworth Newark Lane Ripley, Surrey". Of course, the little lady appreciates the extra care, and her very nice condition illustrates it. Details include pretty inset blue glass eyes, nice full painted lips, subtle cheek color, abundant honey-blond hand-rooted hair, perfect wax limbs and then there is...the dress. The bridal gown is a triumph in cream satin, with gorgeous details, such as elegant lines throughout, generous use of handmade lace and wonderful box pleating at the hemline. Her marvelous original under things were edged in matching lace and the tulle veil is as soft and billowy as the day it was placed on her pretty head, along with the crown of wax orange blossoms. Oh, and how do we know her name you ask? An old heavy paper tag is tied to her bouquet of wax flowers...from silk streamers it is suspended, and upon it is written...simply...Priscilla. $4800.00



Sewing dolls are rare to find, and that fact is certain. Factor in the originality of this marvelous example and what you have here is a real treasure. Composed of a parian shoulderhead which is unusual in its own right with its blonde hair featuring ringlets and a molded hair band – pierced ears are another wonderful feature. The facial features are nicely painted, although there is a not too noticeable loss to a portion of the nose which obviously occurred in the greenware stage. Mounted on a stuffed cloth body which doubles as a pin cushion (and still holds lots of pins), it is fitted with simple stone bisque arms that end in cupped hands. The elegant dress of navy silk is original, although quite tender, and the red sash adds a dramatic flair. Implements include a steel scissors that is tucked into the lace edging, plus a wonderful pin cushion in the shape of a tufted ottoman, complete with tiny pins. Wonderful for the collector of sewing items, or for use in a dollhouse. Measures: 7" tall $950.00




The picture of elegance is this twenty-three inch French papier-mache, who is so life-like, it seems she might open her mouth and speak at any moment. Fine details include a glowing finish with amazingly beautiful painted features, inset glass eyes which are highlighted by delicate lashes, and a wonderful auburn wig which retains its original styling. On a French leather body that appears to be in good, sturdy condition (save for patching and repair to right wrist), we prefer not to undress this doll due to the fragile nature of her clothing. A lovely silk dress with 1830s styling is the centerpiece of her exquisite presentation, along with antique underthings, black leather shoes and a marvelous cream satin poke bonnet, a perfect compliment to her lace shawl of a similar tone. Of special note in a very early photographic pin which is worn upon her breast. A rare opportunity to acquire an early doll in truly amazing condition! SOLD Thank you, D.


Yes, miracles do occasionally occur – like finding this amazing doll in her original box! An all original Reinforced Wax shoulderhead, this little darling stands thirteen and three-quarters inches tall, bears bright blue sleep-eyes, a lovely curly blonde mohair wig and personality, plus. In addition, she has lovely coloring to her face, although there are a couple of surface fractures upon her head, at the right upper eye socket, and at the left temple. On a cloth body with wax-over arms and legs, note the bright pleasing color of her pink gauze over cream cotton dress, with its pink satin ribbon accents. Yes, original under things, pink silk stockings and shoes with silver metal buckles complete the look! Her pasteboard box, complete with informative label, does have losses, but its presence only adds to the already strong appeal of this miracle doll, circa 1880. $595.00