Home > Learning Center > Paper Dolls

Paper Dolls

Paper dolls have a centuries old history. However, their exact origins and development are hard matters to trace. This is due to material choice. Paper disintegrates far easily from the other materials commonly used in doll creation.

The earliest paper dolls recorded were created in Japan. These date back to the tenth century and were used as part of a ceremony related to purification. Along with the use of these dolls were miniature boats, also integral aspects of the ceremony.

In Europe, paper dolls came into popularity during the 18th century. Both the British and the French came up with their own styles around this time. For the former, they were used to emphasize stories related to morality. The latter, on the other hand, utilized these little figures for satire.

Baby Dolls | Porcelain Dolls | Learning Center | Site Map | Links | Contact | Home

Copyright © 2009