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For your consideration is a stunning, beautifully crafted 26-inch vintage studio reproduction of the famous Kestner "Hilda" baby doll. Created in 1994, this magnificent heirloom-quality doll features an all-porcelain jointed body and carries a wonderful history that makes it a spectacular display piece.
Key Details & Characteristics
The Artist & Date: The back of the neck is proudly signed and dated “made by Edith Faught 1994”, identifying the talented studio artisan who physically poured, fired, and hand-finished this exceptional doll at the height of the 1990s porcelain revival.
Markings & Molds: Alongside the artist's signature, the porcelain features the incised JDK jr 190 / 1070 Germany hobbyist mold markings. These text elements were part of the specialized commercial plaster mold used by twentieth-century artisans to replicate J.D. Kestner’s iconic 1914 character masterpiece.
Composition: Unlike antique originals built on composition material, this heavy, substantial doll is crafted entirely from smooth bisque porcelain from head to toe.
Artistry: Features wonderfully painted soft brown sleep eyes, feathered brows, and an open mouth showcasing an adorable tongue and two molded upper teeth. She is crowned with a cloud of curly blonde mohair under an antique lace-trimmed bonnet.
Wardrobe: She comes elegantly dressed in a sprawling, floor-length vintage white cotton and lace christening gown, complete with beautiful pin-tucking and delicate needlework patterns.
Special Provenance & Sentimental History
This doll boasts an exceptional pedigree. It was proudly and lovingly preowned as part of the private estate of Elizabeth Travis Johnson, the highly celebrated, world-renowned Nashville smocking seamstress and needlework author. Given her lifelong dedication to master textile artistry, this doll was preserved with the utmost care.
Adding to its sweet charm, the handwritten script penned on the back of the neck by Edith Faught indicates that this specific doll was custom-crafted to be given as a cherished birthday present in 1994.
Condition Report
The doll is in beautiful vintage condition. The porcelain head, torso, and limbs are structurally sound with excellent cheek color, crisp mold lines, and no chips or cracks.
