Dolls that have delighted children over the course of two centuries will take pride of place in Hansons’ Platinum Jubilee Auction.
This specialist sale, which also includes royal memorabilia and a rich array of prom gowns and wedding dresses, honours the Queen’s 70 years of service as the UK’s reigning monarch.
A collection of dolls through the decades seemed a fitting tribute and Hansons’ dolls and teddy bears consultant Janet Rawnsley has sourced some wonderful auction entries.
She said: “There is a huge variety of dolls representing two centuries including bisque-head and wax dolls. Collectors can bid on several stand-out pieces and fascinating items relating to dolls.
“Childhood ephemera always has a story hidden. It’s remarkable so many of these items survived to tell the tale. Many lived through the First and Second World Wars and survived numerous house moves but they’re still here to share their history. Much of that is down to the fact that they have been loved and played with – and they’re just too lovely to cast aside.
Lots include an item given to a bride in 1805 for her trousseau. Among her marital keepsakes was an early 19th century love token fabric applique sewing case decorated with dolls.
Hansons is also offering a book about Queen Victoria’s early 19th Century dolls; mid-19th century Asian child’s embroidered shoes and a rare 1930s Lenci felt dolls original artwork catalogue depicting its late 1920s and early 30s range.
There is also a wonderful selection of turn-of-the-century Bisque head dolls, available at a price to suit every pocket, each adorned with beautiful, finely-made clothing.
Another lot not to miss is a complete set of Pewter Hantel miniatures from 1982, made in Scotland, first issue. Hantel miniatures are not always rare but early pieces are hard to find. For example, a parrot bird cage, which was manufactured in tiny numbers, can achieve £300.
Much of the collection set for auction belonged to the late Queenie Wild, a passionate doll maker, collector and teacher from Lancashire. She amassed her dolls over the course of 55 years.
Queenie, who sadly passed away in 2019, spent much of her life enjoying all things related to crafts, dolls, dolls houses, dolls clothes, miniatures and rare and beautiful things. She was an avid learner, maker of things and participant in clubs, shows and competitions celebrating all her interests.
Queenie was ultimately an expert and skilled in the art of making miniatures, dolls clothes and dolls themselves. Many of her skills were self-taught. She helped transfer her talents to others through teaching night classes in Blackpool.
She even purchased two kilns, obtained moulds from celebrated manufacturers and set about making her own bisque dolls from scratch.
Hansons Royal Memorabilia Platinum Jubilee Auction will take place on May 26. Catalogue: www.hansonslive.co.uk – due live May 19
Free Dolls and Teddies Valuations
Hansons holds a rich array of regular toy, dolls and teddy bear auctions. Janet Rawnsley will be offering free dolls and teddy bear valuations at St John’s Knutsford Church Centre, Church Hill, Knutsford, WA16 6DH on May 20 and June 10, 11am-1pm. To find out more, or to arrange a private valuation, email: [email protected]
