For the first time, before the 1930s, they were made of porcelain, wood or wax.  Porcelain Dolls originated in Europe in the 19th century, especially in Britain, France and Germany. You can tell a lot about the fashion of the 19th century by their clothes, hairstyles and shoes.

 

The second period, the middle of the 20th century, is mostly from the heyday of American doll-making, which is before the doll industry moved to China. Most of them were born between 1930 and 1980. There are usually hard plastic dolls, gelatin dolls (or celluloid dolls, I’m not sure), and early leather dolls. They are mostly used as toys for children. Dolls from this period can learn about the history of American doll-making, companies such as Madame Alexander and Ideal and 20th century fashion. From the 1980s to the present, dolls from this period can be regarded as adult dolls in contrast to children’s toys. Is a new phenomenon. They are usually produced by companies like Ashton Drake,Madame Alexander, Tonner Dolls, etc. These dolls are usually a little bit artistic – finely carved, beautifully decorated until the final finish.

 

They are not usually used to play with, although there are plenty of adults who dress up their dolls, dress them, decorate them, and re-dye their hair. Some dolls are handmade – works of art indeed. Others are often designed and sold in the United States but made in China.