Peddler Doll

Manufacturer C & H White (English (Milton, England), 1830 - 1860)

Date1830-1860

OriginHead: England Body: England

MediumHead: leather Body: cotton Limbs: leather hands Clothes: cotton, wool, silk

Dimensions7 1/4 in. (18.4 cm) without base

ClassificationsDolls, Doll Accessories, Toys and Games

Credit LineGift of Ann and Henry Brunnier. In the Ann and Henry Brunnier Collection, Brunnier Art Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.

Object number8.17.1

Status

Not on view

Collections

Dolls, Games and Toys

CultureEnglish

Label TextPeddlers were first licensed in England in 1698, requiring each to always carry appropriate credentials, including a certificate of good character usually signed by a member of the clergy. Changerwife was the curious name given to peddlers in northern England, and those selling books were frequently called chapmen. In country districts, people relied on peddlers for boot and shoe laces, braid trimmings, linen and cotton lace and numerous other items well into the Edwardian era. Peddler dolls functioned as curios rather than toys and were frequently covered with a glass dome and displayed throughout the home, particularly during Victorian times. Made of leather and other natural materials, these dolls are dressed in vendors' clothing and carry trays of miniature wares, resembling the persons who toured the countryside selling their merchandise. These four dolls bear typical goods sold by peddlers and are crafted in charming detail. No taller than 8 ¼ inches, each doll has tiny accessories completed with impressive realism. Each doll is depicted selling a different variety of goods, including flowers, eggs, vegetables, housewares and books.

MarkingsWooden base: C. & White, Milton, Portsmouth

Locations