Early 20th Century Italian Dolls in Local Costume

A set of 6 mostly cloth dolls. The dolls originated in Italy and were purchased after WWII in Italy. I have brought them with me wherever I’ve lived around the US and Europe. Now I’m in my 60s and it is time to find them a new home. Two of the dolls are damaged. One’s legs have come off and the other has lost her arms. However I have the detached limbs and they are included in the sale. Perhaps they can be repaired. The dolls range in size from 8” to 6” tall. Four of the dolls seem to originate in Italy. The one male of the group has a manufacturer’s label sewn onto his military uniform. One of the larger dolls is believed to be Snow White. The detail of the costumes, the intricate sewing and authentic fabrics used make these quality items. They are not pristine or mint. I inherited them as a child from a WWll veteran and they were well loved dolls. Now it is a time to pass them on to someone who genuinely appreciates them and can give them a good home.

Dimensions

6”-8” tall

Acquired From:

Inherited

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Mearto's online appraisal:

Delia

Mearto specialist

June 4, 2024
Fair Market Value:
$
300
-
$
500
USD

Hi Nina, Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry. The Napoleonic era (I've amended the spelling in the header) was in the early 19th Century (circa 1800-1810); these dolls were made at least 100 years later, not earlier than 1900-1920 and even possibly later. Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is: Six antique cloth and composition dolls Continental, unattributed makers, early 20th Century All with composition heads and cloth bodies. Two side glance dolls (one a soldier, the other a lady) dressed in early 19th Century style clothing made in the 20th Century; soldier's olive green felt uniform labeled "Galafi Made in Italy," with tricorne hat with feather and pink raffia basket. Larger doll resembles Snow White, with pinafore and black shoes. Two blue-eyed brown-haired dolls with braids, woven hat with red puff-form ornaments and ethnic costumes A brown-haired doll with lace mobcap and blue with a heart marked Abruzzo Both side glance dolls 7 inches tall; other doll 8 inches long; other dolls between 6-8 inches CONDITION: most in generally good condition with some wear commensurate to age and use; two with detached limbs PROVENANCE: originally acquired in Europe $300-500 for the group of three* *represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary. Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, and thank you again for using Mearto.