Collecting Dolls: Reference and Price Guide

Antique dolls are one of the liveliest sectors of the collectors' market and in general have been a good investment over the years. Constance King, who has been writing, lecturing, collecting and dealing in dolls for many years, has produced an informative book which will help doll enthusiasts to identify and date dolls and assess their value. As collectors are most interested in the 19th century, the book concentrates mainly on dolls made between 1800 and 1940 and discusses their construction, manufacture and attributes. Through early carved wooden, wax, papier mache, mechanical, china, German and French bisque, miniature, fabric and indestructible dolls, the author looks individually at over 500 examples and comments on their current value, history and potential. Some of the finest dolls to pass through the leading auction rooms are included, alongside especially photographed day-to-day pieces from dealers and collectors. Prices are not based on a single auction realisation but are assessed from long-term trends. Annual price revision lists will keep the book up to date, making it an invaluable aid to collectors, dealers and everyone interested in learning more about this rewarding subject.

Constance King is a former editor of Doll & Toy Collector magazine.