Developed by 16th century cabinet makers for the aristocracy, dolls'
houses were once the thing-to-have for any lady of wealth. In 1921
Princess Marie Louise commissioned the construction of a dolls' house
by top architect of the day, Sir Edwin Lutyens, as a gift to Queen
Mary. At 1:12 scale, the house stands nearly five feet to parapet level
and includes many exquisite, working pieces contributed by top artists
and craftsmen. Presented to Queen Mary in 1924, the dolls' house was
displayed at the British Empire Exhibition in 1924/5 and is now on show
for all to enjoy at Windsor Castle.
This royal interest inspired many more to enjoy dolls' houses and
miniature collecting, and over the 20th century there was a steep rise
in the design of both bespoke and manufactured designs, making the
hobby more accessible as the century unfolded. Favourite styles of the
time included classical Georgian dolls' houses mimicking the stately
'orders' of country houses and typical Victorian town houses with more
asymmetric design and decorative detail.
Dingley Hall was made from the carcasses of two bookcases in the
1870's by school boys, Laurence and Isaac Currie, who lived at Minley
Manor in Hampshire. It sold for £124,750 by auction at Christie's in
October 2003. Image courtesy of Christie's
'Beckingham Palace' on display at Longleat (Image courtesy of
BNPS).
Montgomery Hall
characterizes the Georgian grandeur popularised in the 19th century and
still a favourite today
Continuing to be a popular pastime, these objects of desire have
progressed to embrace new styles such as stock-broker half-timbered
"semis", rural cottages and supermodern
apartments. The dolls' house has evolved from a traditional toy to a
modern statement piece, demonstrating wealth and style in a home.
But not everybody has taken to the new styles; many still prefer the
escape to more decadent times that period dolls' houses offer.
Victoriana has always held a fascination for collectors of many guises,
and this continues to be a trend for miniaturists. The classical
Georgian and Regency Palladian styles also hold their own in the
market, with Dingley Hall - a grand 19th century manor house - selling
at auction for £124,750 in October 2003.
For examples of both traditional and modern dolls' houses and
exquisitely crafted miniatures visit the Museum of Childhood at
the Victoria and Albert Museum, or A World In Miniature
Museum at Houghton
Hall Garden Centre, Carlisle. Or, for a unique take on the life of
modern celebrity, visit Longleat Safari Park where there is one collector's
version of 'Beckingham Palace' on display, complete with rooftop
football pitch for David, a pink boudoir for Victoria, and 'his and
hers' signature toilets!
One of the exquisite pieces on display at A World In Miniature
Museum, Carlisle