Topsy-Turvy Handmade Folk Art Doll
Folk Art & Dolls

Topsy-Turvy Handmade Folk Art Doll

This is a handcrafted cloth folk art doll, likely a 'Topsy-Turvy' style doll, though only one side is currently visible. The doll features a brown fabric head with hand-painted facial features including blue eyes with long eyelashes and red lips. She wears a dark blue satin-like head wrap. Her attire consists of a green top accented with gold bead trim at the neckline and a multi-tiered, voluminous skirt. The skirt is constructed from high-contrast cotton fabrics with vibrant prints: a purple floral pattern with green leaves and a lime green pattern with orange and blue polka dots. The construction indicates a home-made or artisanal origin, common in African American folk traditions or Caribbean souvenir crafts. The doll is embellished with small orange and silver-toned bracelets on her right arm. The piece appears to be in good vintage condition with bright colors and intact stitching, showing minor softening of the fabric consistent with age. There are no visible maker's marks, suggesting it is a unique, one-of-a-kind piece likely dating from the mid-to-late 20th century. The craftsmanship is detailed, particularly in the layering of the skirts and the fine application of the facial paint.

Estimated Value

$45.00 - $75.00

Basic Information

Category

Folk Art & Dolls

Appraised On

January 25, 2026

Estimated Value

$45.00 - $75.00

Item Description

This is a handcrafted cloth folk art doll, likely a 'Topsy-Turvy' style doll, though only one side is currently visible. The doll features a brown fabric head with hand-painted facial features including blue eyes with long eyelashes and red lips. She wears a dark blue satin-like head wrap. Her attire consists of a green top accented with gold bead trim at the neckline and a multi-tiered, voluminous skirt. The skirt is constructed from high-contrast cotton fabrics with vibrant prints: a purple floral pattern with green leaves and a lime green pattern with orange and blue polka dots. The construction indicates a home-made or artisanal origin, common in African American folk traditions or Caribbean souvenir crafts. The doll is embellished with small orange and silver-toned bracelets on her right arm. The piece appears to be in good vintage condition with bright colors and intact stitching, showing minor softening of the fabric consistent with age. There are no visible maker's marks, suggesting it is a unique, one-of-a-kind piece likely dating from the mid-to-late 20th century. The craftsmanship is detailed, particularly in the layering of the skirts and the fine application of the facial paint.

Get Your Items Appraised

Instant estimates of your treasures with AI-powered instant appraisals

Browse More Appraisals