A genuine antique French bisque fashion doll bearing the F.G. (Francois Gautier) mark on the shoulder plate together with the size number 1. Dating to approximately 1875 to 1885, this doll represents one of the most respected names in French doll manufacture. Gautier, based in Montreuil-sous-Bois, produced some of the finest bisque heads of the period, and the closed mouth on this example places it among the more desirable of his productions.
HEAD AND FACE
The bisque swivel head sits on a bisque shoulder plate marked F.G. and 1. The bisque is smooth and fine. The face is painted with blue fixed glass eyes, delicately multi-stroke feathered eyebrows in brown, painted upper eyelashes, subtly blushed cheeks, and a closed rosebud mouth with fine detail. Ears are pierced and fitted with pearl drop earrings. A cork pate is present under the wig. The auburn human hair wig is styled in a period-appropriate upswept chignon.
CONDITION NOTE :
There is a hairline crack visible at the forehead. This is clearly shown in the photographs and must be considered when bidding. It does not penetrate through the bisque. All photographs form part of the description.
BODY
The body is a classic French fashion doll construction. The arms are kid leather, seamed along the full length, with some age-related staining and surface deterioration visible on the lower arms and hands as clearly shown in the photographs. The torso and legs are stuffed fabric, structurally intact and holding their shape well.
COSTUME AND ACCESSORIES
The doll is dressed in a complete Victorian bustle-period ensemble comprising: Dress: Wine-coloured silk with large ruffled collar trimmed in cream embroidered lace, long fitted sleeves with matching trim, bustle-back construction with pointed front opening over a cream silk underskirt trimmed in wine braid. Undergarments: Original white cotton chemise and knee-length drawers trimmed with antique lace, white cotton stockings. Shoes: White leather Mary Jane-style shoes with silk ribbon ties and rose embellishments — charming period accessories. Jewellery: Pearl drop earrings, velvet choker ribbon with paste/rhinestone floral brooch. Stand: Wooden display stand included.
MARKS
F.G. incised on shoulder plate (Francois Gautier, Montreuil-sous-Bois, France) 1 incised on right shoulder — size mark
DIMENSIONS
Height: 35 cm (approximately 14 inches)
CONDITION SUMMARY
Hairline crack at forehead — clearly photographed and disclosed
Leather lower arms and hands: surface deterioration
Cork pate intact
Wig present, styled, some looseness consistent with age
Costume complete, age-related wear and tear to fabrics
Kid body structurally intact
Glass eyes clear and present
This doll is sold as an antique collectible with condition issues as described and photographed.
All images form part of the description.
Please study all photographs carefully before purchasing.
SHIPPING
Please note: Due to the high value and rarity of this doll, shipping will be handled exclusively via DHL Express. This ensures secure, insured, and expedited delivery with professional handling throughout the journey.
To ensure smooth delivery and complete necessary paperwork, buyers must provide a valid phone number and e-mail address at checkout.
NB:
All vintage items are sold as-is; please message for any extra photos or questions before purchasing.