Hi Deanna,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

Composition dolls, popular in the 1920s, were made from a mixture of sawdust, glue, and other materials, creating a durable and affordable alternative to porcelain. This material allowed for more detailed and lifelike facial features, often painted with bright cheeks and expressive eyes. These dolls were commonly used as children's toys and were sometimes dressed in stylish, era-appropriate clothing. Manufacturers such as Madame Alexander and Effanbee produced famous examples during this time. While composition was prone to cracking with age or moisture, these dolls became beloved collectibles, representing the innovative spirit of early 20th-century toy-making.

Similar but intact dolls of comparable size and age typically sell for between $50-125, depending on the maker and condition. While this doll will have great sentimental value for you and family having been owned by your grandmother, in it's present condition, it's worth $40-60, including the wardrobe.

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

An antique composition doll and hand-made wardrobe
American or European, circa 1920s
With painted features, the head and legs have become detached from the torso, to which are still attached the arms. Presumably unmarked.
Together with about 15 pieces of clothing, hand-made for the doll by the client's great-grandmother.
21 inches overall length
CONDITION: Wear and losses; head and legs detached from the torse.
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$ 40-60*
*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