The first goal of any miniaturist is simple - produce a scale model that is as true as possible to a full size piece.
Well, of course, dolls can only move in limited ways, but should have a lifelike quality to them.
Research is critical. Although static models and ornaments can be splendid to look at and touch, I love movement.
If the original toy moved, then the model must as well. An ornament doll is not as delightful as a little figure moving and adjusting to the shape of your hand.
Developing a doll
1. Head
I start with the head and face. The dolls' heads are usually sculpted with reference to a photograph and moulds are made from the finished master.
2. Articulation
I design their articulation, which can be extremely complex, or simple.
- Some dolls have movement at the ankles (tiny separate feet are very difficult in porcelain) as well as knees, elbows, hips, shoulders and neck.
- Some simply have movement at shoulder, elbows , knees, hips and neck.
- The simplest have straight arms and legs and move at shoulders, hips and neck.
I've experimented with different ways of producing articulating joints and find that a bar and ring joint allows movement in 2 planes and works well.
The Halcyon Hours collection
Our dolls
Halcyon Hours has also produced dolls for our porcelain children.
For example, our French BeBe type with porcelain head, arms and legs and a leather jointed body.
We also have a china doll, undressed with leather body.
Our rocking horses
Our rocking horses are made in the same way as the original horses were made. That is, parts cut, parts prepared and then blocked together and carved down.
- The head appears to be tossing by being out of the plane of the body.
- The saddle and harness are made from fine leather.
- Tiny buckles are made from brass and threaded with the harness straps which are pulled tight once on the horse to make it as authentic as possible.
- The bowler hat swing iron covers and stirrups are gilded to keep them bright and shining.
Bow rocking horses are made in the same way, except of course they do not have the glider elements such as swing irons.
Our push toys
Push toys have a good deal of artistic licence of course. They represent what could have been and are inspired by pictures in old children’s books or old toy catalogues.
Augustus the Elephant is now in full production.
My dream of making him move came true when I discovered the new resin mediums. This meant his parts could be hollowed out so that mechanisms could be inserted.
Now he can flap his ears and beat his drum when his owner applies a downward forward action to turn the back wheels of his carrying platform.
New push toys will appear later this year. I am currently working on a seal with a bobbing fish or balloon, that clapps its fins.
Other 'working' miniatures
In the past we have made electrified table lamps and chandeliers.
One of our very popular table lamps had a beaded porcelain lampshade though the lampshade colours were limited by the supply of tiny beads.
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