Description

An unusual cabinet-size antique German bisque doll by Armand Marseille, standing approximately 13 inches (33 cm) tall and marked “Made in Germany, C.A. 4/0 M.” This charming early-20th-century doll has been carefully and sympathetically restored at Dolls’ Stories Hospital, with respect for her age, original character, and historical materials.

Armand Marseille was a major German maker of bisque doll heads, and its dolls were generally marked with the maker’s initials or name together with mold and/or size information. The “Made in Germany” marking is also consistent with production for export after 1891.

Restoration

The doll arrived at my hospital with significant condition issues and has undergone a complete, conservation-minded restoration:

• Thorough cleaning of the doll

• Replacement of the elastic stringing cords

• Strengthening and restoration of the neck socket

• Reconstruction of the missing section of the right arm

• Strengthening of the lower legs

• Creation of a cork pate to cover the top opening of the head

• Restoration of the original mohair wig using antique mohair fibers

Her bisque head is free from cracks. The original eyes remain in their correct position and retain their wax coating. The body shows honest, age-appropriate traces of time and has been protected with natural shellac varnish.

All restoration work is reversible. Period-appropriate techniques and natural materials were selected to remain faithful to the doll’s early-20th-century origin.

Handmade costume

The doll wears a one-of-a-kind, historically inspired outfit handmade in my workshop.

• Underwear: Made specifically for her figure from virgin cambric and modern cotton lace, inspired by antique children’s and doll undergarments.

• Dress: Sewn from lined vintage silk chiffon, following the pattern of an antique doll dress.

• Stockings: Made in my workshop from distressed cotton jersey, based on old stocking models.

• Shoes: Handmade from vintage genuine leather using antique patterns and traditional construction techniques.

Condition

Excellent condition following professional restoration. This small Armand Marseille doll is ready for display and would make a wonderful addition to an antique doll collection—an heirloom piece to cherish and pass on to future generations.