Information on French Dolls
" "The French started creating dolls in the 1840's and produced them until the 1950's. There are a few characteristics that are for the most part unique to French dolls. They normally have large almond shaped eyes, long painted lashes, and large brows with numerous strokes. They also have paperweight eyes, mohair wigs and either jointed composition bodies or kid leather bodies. Their clothing was more detailed and fancier than their German counterparts.

Some of the best known French manufacturers are Jumeau, Bru, Steiner and SFBJ. SFBJ is a society of French doll makers that was formed in 1899 and lasted until 1958. This society of French doll makers was formed when the Jumeau, Bru and eight other doll companies joined together to better compete with the growing German doll industry.

Identification of French bisque dolls is aided by the markings on both the heads and bodies. Although many markings are still unidentified, there are a number of markings that are distinctive of to either Jumeau, Bru, Steiner or other French doll makers. These markings also help distinguish French dolls from German dolls.

For more information on identifying markings, please check reference books, or go to a doll appraiser.

Adding a good French doll to your collection is a major accomplishment. French dolls are, as a rule, more valuable and harder to find than their German counterparts. " "