Hi Kimberly,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

Twente is a region in central/eastern Netherlands, encompassing the most urbanized and easternmost part of the province of Overijssel. Though Twente is the most urbanized part of the province of Overijssel, it is renowned for its scenic countryside and attracts tourists not only from other parts of the country but from around the world. The economy of Twente is deeply reliant on agriculture, which has had a deep impact on the cultural representations of the area.

Your doll is a charming model of this national pride, depicted in the national costume of Netherlands, down to the tiny wooden shoes.

While most ethnic dolls have historically not been a big-money niche of the doll market, this has a folky quality that adds to its appeal. The fact that it wears so many - 15 in total - different garments, each handmade by a local dairy farming family, elevates it above other ethnic Dutch dolls of similar size and vintage.

While most other dolls are currently selling on the secondary (auction) market for less than $100, this would be well-placed in a specialty doll auction where it would likely sell for between $150 and $250. Note that doll retailers would likely be asking higher retail prices in the primary market.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

A vintage painted composition Dutch doll
made in Twente, The Netherlands, 20th Century
Wearing a hul (bonnet), blouse and bodice, skirt, apron, socks and wooden shoes (specifying more garments requires additional photos)
21 inches tall
CONDITION: This doll appears to be in good condition
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$ 150-250*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia