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Black and White doll.

Profile picture for user mlk082110
By mlk082110, 16 November, 2012
Description

This doll was found in my Grandmothers' estate. It is Very old, and Very unusual. Someone made this doll back when the blacks and whites were not equal, blacks were slaves, so I'm guessing this type of doll was made special. I have never seen one like it ever. I can remember my grandmother displaying it at her home saying that this doll was so special that noone dare to have one. She had it, so I wondered why she would say that.

My Grandmother also pointed out the fact that it was one of just a few that were made, but wasn't sure who made it. There are no markings on it from what I can see.

If anyone can give me a value on this special doll, and a round about date in which it was produced, please do so. I would be willing to sell at right price.

Please advise...

 

Category
Antique Toys
Medium
wood
Distinguishing marks
cuticles on fingers, curls in hair, no feet
Condition
Fair
Size and dimensions of this item
7" tall head to head, and 3 1/4 wide hand to hand
Date Period
not known
Weight
almost a lb.
History
This doll belonged to my Grandmother. I acquired it throgh her estate. It was hers as a little girl. This doll was made back when blacks and whites were not equal, but blacks were slaves. My guess would be that this doll was made by a person for a special reason or whatever. It is very different and unusual. I have never seen one like it before, and everyone I show it to, are amazed. The doll is one piece, just half white, half black. My grandmother did point out that not many were made. There are NO markings on the dolls.There is one dress, but two different designes when you flip the doll. All moveable parts still work. The doll is old, and not in the best shape, but is very unusual. I hade it examined by a local antique dealer, and he was willng to give me a couple thousand for it. I want to know what you might value it at, and the age.
eBay Auction Link
Price Paid (If known)
no known
For Sale?
Yes
Photos
Profile picture for user fishwhacker

fishwhacker

12 years 7 months ago

Re: Black and White doll.

This doll appears to be german and has nothing to do with slavery and far outdates that era. It is most likely circa 1880s at the earliest and probably more like 1900-1935. I doubt anyone here is going to be an expert on dolls, you need to get in contact with a toy appraiser. I am extremely skeptical of the offers made to you as personally I don't see the value, but again if you feel they may be of significant value you should really pay for a formal appraisal from a true expert.

No votes yet
Profile picture for user kathyBeh

kathyBeh

12 years 7 months ago

Re: Black and White doll.

This is a Topsy Turvy Doll, Black and White.   They arent rare. Weird though.  :) 

No votes yet
Profile picture for user fishwhacker

fishwhacker

12 years 7 months ago

In reply to Re: Black and White doll. by kathyBeh

Re: Black and White doll.

I'm guessing the antiques expert that offered thousands and thousands of dollars for the dolls doesn't exist... if he does you should have already gone back and sold the dolls while you have the chance! I thought something was way off about the offers, nice dolls, but they are more common than you think and not worth much.

No votes yet

Kniegos

10 years 11 months ago

Re: Black and White doll.

I've had this topsy turvy doll in my antique store a few times in the last 25 years.  It isn't that rare but not terribly common either.  It usually sells in the $50 to $125 range depending on condition. 

No votes yet
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