Rochard Doll Company Porcelain Bisque Doll "Catherine".
The Rochard Doll Company proudly presents the exquisite Porcelain Bisque Doll "Catherine," a masterful creation inspired by the elegant French style of E.A. Rochard, dating back to 1867-1870. This stunning Rochard Doll is adorned with 21 Microphoto Jewels, each piece a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship that defines high-end doll collecting.
About "Catherine"
Catherine is a breathtaking swivel-head fashion doll, meticulously crafted by renowned doll artists Jennie Sykes and Michael Sheibley for the esteemed Rochard Doll Company. She is the inaugural piece in a limited edition mold run of only 20 dolls, making her a truly exclusive addition to any collection. Catherine embodies the charm and sophistication of the Victorian era.
Features and Craftsmanship
Stunning Appearance: Catherine showcases high-quality antique dark aquamarine blue paperweight glass eyes and a handmade, formally styled strawberry blond mohair wig, perfectly complemented by her pierced ears adorned with coordinating earrings.
Intricate Detailing: The meticulous painting and detailing of her aristocratic face convey a slightly sassy but warm and inviting impression, captivating all who behold her.
Unique Jewelry: Catherine features a raised heart pendant and a gold-painted necklace featuring 21 Tanzanite colored "Rochard Jewels" around her breast-plate. Each jewel contains a microphoto made from an "antique cliché". Cliché is what the French named these tiny microscopic photos produced on thin glass plates about 3mm x 3mm square. These cliché microphotos were made by the Lize in Paris, France between 1880 and 1939 when they closed their doors. A peek into each jewel will reveal the photo with great clarity.
Historical Significance: The stanhope lens, invented around 1867-8 by A.E. Rochard, adds a layer of historical intrigue, as fewer than a dozen of these exquisite dolls exist today, most residing in esteemed museums.
Illuminated Features: The back of the shoulder plate includes a window cut-out, allowing backlight to illuminate the tiny photo images within the lens jewels.
Investment Value
This doll is not just a stunning presentation piece, standing at 29 inches tall; it represents a rare opportunity to own an extraordinary collectible that offers character, intrigue, and significant investment value. Identification marks include the distinctive "Rochard" marking inside the shoulder plate, ensuring authenticity and provenance.
Stanhope Jewel
Catherine's adornments include:
The high-resolution, clear microphotos depict American Landmarks, buildings, places of interest, Famous Americans among others.
A Captivating Addition to Your Collection
Catherine is not only an unusual and captivating conversation piece but also a remarkable addition to any discerning doll collector's collection. To delve deeper into the artistry behind Genevieve and the Rochard Doll Company, please explore our blog article Resurrecting Rochard - The Rochard Doll Company.
She arrives with a Certificate of Authenticity, making her an ideal gift for collectors and connoisseurs alike.
