I love old doll cradles from the 19th century and have two little treasures in my collection that are my favorites. Both are put together with square nails which is a good indication of their early age. They are small as far as cradles go but that to me is part of what makes them so special.
The first cradle measures just less than seven inches long by four inches tall. I know nothing about its history except that I purchased it on eBay a couple of years ago. The patina on this one is amazing and could only have come from years and years of cradling little dollies!
I purchased the second cradle on eBay as well but happily know a little more about its history. This one came from New York and once belonged to a 92 year old woman who had received it as a child. She inherited it from her mother who was most likely the original owner. It measures approximately six inches long by five inches tall and has been well taken care of through the years. The patina is simply wonderful and oh so warm.... I can only imagine how many happy dollies fell asleep in this cradle all those many years ago!
Sandy
I just finished another little doll quilt...finally!!! I decided to make this one using blue and brown 19th century reproduction fabrics in the spirit of many old doll quilts that I've seen. The quilt measures just ten inches by nine inches and each little nine patch square is two inches. I pieced it and quilted it by hand...my favorite way to make a doll quilt!
The first cradle measures just less than seven inches long by four inches tall. I know nothing about its history except that I purchased it on eBay a couple of years ago. The patina on this one is amazing and could only have come from years and years of cradling little dollies!
I purchased the second cradle on eBay as well but happily know a little more about its history. This one came from New York and once belonged to a 92 year old woman who had received it as a child. She inherited it from her mother who was most likely the original owner. It measures approximately six inches long by five inches tall and has been well taken care of through the years. The patina is simply wonderful and oh so warm.... I can only imagine how many happy dollies fell asleep in this cradle all those many years ago!