vintage composition doll parts, possibly Japanese export, c.1930s–1950s




vintage composition doll parts, possibly Japanese export, c.1930s–1950s
A wonderfully evocative collection of vintage doll parts comprising a composition head, torso, one arm and one leg. Retaining the original dark hair and painted features, these fragments possess the quiet charm and melancholy beauty often found in well-loved early dolls.
Possibly originating from a Japanese export doll dating from the 1930s to 1950s, the pieces show extensive age crazing, wear and paint loss consistent with decades of handling and storage. The head retains its original wig and expressive painted face, while the body and limbs display the characteristic crackled surface associated with composition dolls of the period.
While no longer complete, these pieces have an undeniable presence. They are ideal for curiosity cabinets, assemblage art, doll restoration projects, theatre props, artists' collections or decorative displays celebrating the beauty of imperfect objects.
Condition
Sold as found. Extensive age-related wear throughout including crazing, paint loss, scuffs, dirt marks and small losses. The doll is incomplete, comprising head, torso, one arm and one leg only. Please study photographs carefully as they form part of the description.
Measurements
Head: 7 cm
Body: 12 cm
Arm: 7 cm
Leg: 10 cm
A Note
Separated from its original form, these doll fragments now exist somewhere between object, sculpture and memory. The worn surfaces, crackled composition and surviving dark hair give the pieces a remarkable presence.
Collected as studies of form, age and character, they would sit beautifully among artists' materials, assemblage collections, curiosity displays or cabinets of found objects.