Doll bed, 1863-1864

Made by Abner Lutes, Atlanta, IL
Walnut

Doll, 1880-ca.1900
China head, cloth body

This miniature four poster bed with rope "springs" was made by Abner Lutes for his daughter, Lillian. The china-head doll is similar to a type of doll children played with during the period 1850-1900. Dolls were the most popular toys for girls. They were made from a wide variety of materials, including bisque, china, leather, paper-mache, and wood. While more well-to-do children played with manufactured dolls, others made do with homemade dolls of cloth, cornhusks, and yarn.

Bed: Gift of Mrs. Dean Hill, Lincoln, IL (701808)
Doll: Gift of Mrs. H. Louis Auten, Oak Park, IL (701153)

Toys | Wood

© Illinois State Museum 31-Dec-96