Childhood Playthings

Recently I was able to peruse a copy of the newest Theriault's Doll Catalog. Theriault's ("The Dollmasters) specializes in the appraisal and auction of antique dolls and "childhood playthings." They have live auctions throughout the U.S. and it is a major deal for collectors.  Let me be clear that when I write deal, I mean 'thing,' not bargain. Not by any means. 

Take a look at this page from their online auction site:

Theriault's The Empress and The Child

Look at the last doll on the first page, namely this beauty

                                                        Theriault's

French Bisque Bebe, Series G, by Jules Steiner in Original Marquis Costume

The opening bid is $35,000!

 Personally I have a weakness for this sort of piece.

   

                                                                                                                 Theriault's

 French Originally-Furnished "Five O'Clock" Tea Room for the English Market 

                                  How fun would this have been to play with?                                                                                                                     

                                                                      Theriault's 

 All-Original Rare German Bisque Art-Character Doll Set by Kestner

If you love antique toys, dolls, or, yes, childhood playthings, 

check out their auctions here:

Dollmasters Upcoming Auctions

It really is fun to read about these delightful things, even if you don't have the toy weakness, and you can even watch the live auction in progress.

Here is their website link:

Theriault's