Antique German Kestner Bisque Doll with Original Leather Body, 17 Inches, Late 19th Century

Overview

This charming antique Kestner doll is a wonderful example of fine German doll craftsmanship from the late nineteenth century. Measuring 17 inches (approximately 43 cm), she has beautifully balanced proportions and a sweet, expressive face with warm brown glass eyes. Her original fixed brown glass eyes give her a gentle, lifelike expression. Elegant and full of character, she would make a beautiful addition to any serious antique doll collection.

Key Details

• Maker: Kestner
• Country: Germany
• Period: Late 19th century
• Head: Fine bisque porcelain
• Eyes: Original fixed brown glass eyes
• Body: Original leather body with cork filling
• Height: 17 in (43 cm)

Head & Facial Features

The bisque head is made of high-quality porcelain and is in excellent antique condition, free of cracks, chips, hairlines, or restorations. Her delicately hand-painted facial features, soft rosy complexion, finely detailed eyebrows, and expressive brown glass eyes create the gentle, lifelike expression for which early Kestner dolls are admired.

Condition

The original leather body remains in fair antique condition. The leather is intact without holes or tears, and the original cork filling remains secure without deterioration or loss. For this reason, the body has not been restored, preserving its historical authenticity, a feature highly appreciated by collectors of early German dolls.

The structure remains stable and suitable for display. Please note the lower section of one leg, where age-related wear is present. This area is clearly shown in the photographs and has been taken into account when describing the doll’s condition.

Costume

The doll is dressed in a beautiful custom-made dress, created especially for her, which complements her elegant appearance and period style. She also wears an antique bonnet that beautifully suits her age and enhances her authentic nineteenth-century character.

Collector's Notes

Early Kestner dolls are admired for their finely modeled bisque heads, expressive faces, and exceptional German craftsmanship. This example is particularly appealing for its excellent bisque head, original fixed brown glass eyes, and remarkably well-preserved original leather body with cork filling—features that are becoming increasingly difficult to find.

Before Purchasing

Please review all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description and condition report.

Reasonable offers are welcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Our collection includes antique, vintage, and one-of-a-kind pieces. Antique and vintage items may show natural signs of age, wear, or previous restoration — characteristics that reflect their individual history and charm.

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