A Jumeau Doll

Sender: Yoshio Yonehara

Jumeau (France) 1885, 65cm, Itahashi Antique Doll Museum

Jumeau bebes (child dolls) or Jumeau poupees (lady dolls) were made in the second half of the 19th century by two generations of the Jumeau family. In the early years Jumeau dolls were made of papier mache and then porcelain (commonly called china) and later bisque doll heads (unglazed bisque). They have beautiful faces and "exquisite" clothing which replicated the popular fashions of the time. The dolls were internationally sought after as luxury items and status symbols. Many of the earliest Jumeau dolls are considered works of art and can fetch a high price today.

Itahashi Antique Doll Museum is in Mori village, Tsuwano town, Shimane, Japan. The museum has antique dolls including Jumeau dolls bought directly from France, postcards, accessories, and paintings.

Look at the realistic clothing, shoes, hats and accessories (is that a turquoise bead necklace?) of the doll. Barbie's own current snazzy wardrobe can't even compare!!