Australian Buyers Only

The earliest known dolls' or baby house was made in Bavaria in the mid-16th century. Like most of those built in the following 250 years, it was designed not to be played with but to be a perfect representation of a princely house and to reflect the wealth of the owner. By the 18th century, in many ways a golden age of dolls' houses in Britain, they were adult playthings that children could enjoy, and only during the 19th century did they finally also become children's toys. This Shire book outlines the history of these intriguing little buildings with illustrations of some fine examples, many of which can be seen today. At all periods, the houses have reflected aspects of the way their owners lived, down to the present day when dolls' houses attract the attention of educationalists and child psychologists as well as designers and collectors. Illustrated throughout with mostly colour photos.

Pages: 40
Published: 2010, Shire Library 271, UK
150mm x 210mm, soft cover
ISBN 978-0-74780-0501-6