The History of Play Dolls
Every one of us probably had owned a doll during our childhood days. But do you know when play dolls started? If not, this article is for you. We will explain the history of play dolls thoroughly and briefly. So, please keep reading to know more about it.
A doll refers to a structure of a particular character. Adults considered the act of collecting dolls as an artistic hobby. Children use this model to play with their friends or when they’re alone. This item is also popular for religious people as they use this item when performing a religious act. Traditional dolls can be found in Europe, Africa, Asia, and America, and are usually made from wood and clay. It documented the initial doll in Rome, Greece, and Egypt during the ancient civilization.
As mentioned, the traditional dolls are usually made from wax, leather, ivory, bone, wood, stone, clay, or a combination of these materials. According to archeology, dolls are the oldest thing that was considered being a toy. During the 21st century BC, some wooden paddle dolls were placed in the Egyptian tombs. Dolls that come with removable clothing and movable limbs were found way back in 200 BC.
Archeologists found clay-made Greek dolls with articulated shoulders and hips. Stuffed animals are rag dolls that are popular during ancient times. But sadly, any sample of this ancient item have not survived. Way back in 100 AD, the ancient female Greeks tend to use dolls for a play.
Just like the young children in this present time, children during the Roman civilization used to dressed their play dolls following the trendiest fashion. In Rome and Greece, boys are required to offer their toys to the gods upon the age of puberty. For girls, they are required to release their dolls and offer it to the goddesses upon their marriage. Rag dolls are the initial play doll that is made from cloth material and was discovered way back 300 BC.
As mentioned, the traditional dolls are considered to be the playthings of the ancient people. But, many people believed that they also have a ritual, magical, and spiritual value. There is no notable line that makes toys and dolls differ from each other. Ancient people believed that the dolls used for any ritual or religious act should be dedicated to children. In some cultures, people considered dolls to be magically enabling young children to play with them when they are alone.
Dolls’ heads that are made from porcelain featuring a body made from wood, cloth, leather, or a combination were discovered way back to the 19th century. Because of technological innovation, dolls nowadays are made from plastic and polymer materials. From the start of the 20th century, dolls are made from plastic or/and porcelain. During the mid-20th century, vinyl is used for doll creation. Synthetic resins, which include polyurethane that has the same texture as porcelain, are being used for creating collectible dolls.
Knowing the history of …