19th Century Doll Appraisal

Late 19th Century Bisque Head Doll with Original Outfit

This is an antique bisque doll, likely dating to the late 1800s, consistent with the provided context. The doll features a bisque head, arms, and legs. The head exhibits finely painted facial features, including blue eyes, rosy cheeks, and pink lips. The hair appears to be molded and painted in a light brown or blonde shade, swept back elegantly. The doll's body is likely made of cloth or composition, common for dolls of this period. The doll is dressed in an aged, light-colored (possibly cream or ecru) dress made of a sheer fabric, perhaps silk or fine cotton, with a fuller skirt. The dress is adorned with red ribbed trim, possibly velvet or ribbon, at the neckline, around the elbows of the sleeves, and along the hem of the skirt. A 'gold collar' is mentioned in the context; however, no distinct gold collar is clearly visible in the image, although a ruffled or lace collar is present around the neck. The doll is stated to have 'pantaloons' underneath, which are not visible in the image but would represent an accurate undergarment for the period. A significant condition issue noted is the missing left bisque shoe, meaning the left foot (and potentially the entire lower left leg) appears to be exposed, revealing the material beneath (likely bisque) where a painted or molded shoe would have been. The right foot appears to retain its black painted or molded shoe. The fabric of the dress shows signs of significant age and wear, possibly including minor tears, fraying, and discoloration, particularly some darkening or staining on the skirt. The craftsmanship of the bisque head appears to be high quality, with delicate painting, indicative of European (likely German or French) doll making prevalent during the late 19th century. Overall, the doll retains much of its original charm, despite the signs of age and the noted damage, requiring attention for a complete appraisal.