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The Old Pretenders studio offers collectors the finest quality reproductions of English wooden dolls in the 17th and 18th century manner. Each one-of-a-kind creation is handcrafted individually using traditional techniques.
All images © The Old Pretenders ↓
These enchanted dolls feature custom made enamel eyes, appropriately fashioned wigs and meticulously researched costumes. And as often as possible: 17th / 18th century antique textiles, trim work, and lace are used in order to recreate a doll that looks and feels every bit as authentic as an original example.
The Old Pretenders studio also offers a complete range of restoration services for antique English wooden dolls. Whether a doll needs subtle conservation, limb replacement or repair or a complete refinishing and re-costuming, it will be done with the utmost care.
these are amazing. i love that they even find old fabrics and use old techniques
j recently posted..Sketch Book – In The Woods
Goodness gracious, these are marvellous. I have often seen illustrations of such dolls in lithographic illustrations in old books but I have never seen a photograph. How extraordinary. Please may I include a fully acknowledged image of one of these dolls in my monthly textile round up called Inside the Ribbon Tin? I will link back to you and this post.
I am fortunate enough to have one of your tiny dolls. I bought it from a doll show nearly ten years ago; your work is like no other!
I am putting some history to my dolls and was wondering when you actually founded “The Old Pretenders”. My precious doll sits sweetly by the door and is the first doll to be seen when anyone comes in! She is a showstopper; I love her more everyday!
Michaeleen Chalut
Are they still making dolls? I would love to have one in my collection.