Dolls' Houses (Hardcover)

Dolls' houses have fascinated children and adults for centuries. From grand 16th century baby houses to mass-produced 1930s cottages, these enchanting miniature homes have a timeless appeal, while also reflecting the architectural styles of their period and providing a unique and revealing approach to social history. With over 400 full-color photographs, Dolls' Houses captures the magic of these pieces. It is a beautifully illustrated and authoritative guide written by Leslie Geddes-Brown, dolls and dolls' house specialist at the leading international auction house, Christie's.

While other books have concentrated solely on dolls' houses and their contents, this book places each house in its social context, creating a comprehensive history of domestic life in miniature. The book uses dozens of pictures and photographs of contemporary houses and interiors to illustrate the important influence of actual buildings on dolls' house design. It also traces the rise of 'fantasy-style' dolls' houses during the 19th century and reveals how, by the mid-20th century, dolls' house design had become inspired more by the past than by current styles.

Four double-page gatefold spreads highlight the most important and interesting dolls' houses in the book. In addition to a photograph of the exterior and complete interior of the house, these spreads include detailed shots of its dolls, furniture and fittings. Sixteen other houses throughout the book are given special attention in double-page features. Includes information on the house's measurements and country of origin, date of manufacture, maker and material used.