Different Types of Russian Nesting Dolls to Collect

If you have decided that would like to start collecting Russian Nesting Dolls, keep in mind there are several different types, and several different price ranges that are available. Have fun while you are looking at all of the selections that are available and remember this collection is for you. You decide on what looks unique to you and then have fun with all the ways you can display your new collection of collectible Russian Dolls.

Collectible Russian Folk Art & Russian Tales Nesting Dolls

These types of dolls are the more traditional dolls. These are what everyone thinks of when they think of Russian nesting dolls. These are hand painted in Russia, and are very colorful and have very elaborate detail. Some have white paint and gold foil embellishments creating a stunning contrast against the dark-stained background of the wood burned doll. Some have a Russian Tale associated with them, and carry the name perhaps of the "Littlest Matryoshka Doll", "Semenov Doll", or may simply be called an "Art Doll".

Collectible Animal Lovers Russian Dolls

These animal dolls make perfect gifts for all of the animal lovers. Not only can you find their favorite animal they collect, but you can give it in the form of a nesting doll. These dolls are usually fairly affordable, and vary in size and number. Some of these dolls can come in very small sizes so would not be suitable for small children. These small dolls are not toys, but rather a gift to give or display. You can find horse, dolphin, panda, and a new version of the Golden Retriever nesting doll.

Educational and Occupational Dolls

These are always fun to collect or give as gifts. If you know of someone who is a teacher, Doctor, Nurse, Veterinarian, or any other occupation, you might just be in luck finding a doll for them. Some of the educational dolls consist of nesting cars, Space Shuttle, Civil War Generals, Russian presidents, and even the latest American presidents.

Religious Dolls

Some of the most famous cities and cathedrals in Russia have been transformed into the most beautiful scenes on these types of Nesting Dolls. You can find many different types of Monastery Dolls, Saints, Apostles, and Angels on these elaborate works of art. Noah's Ark makes a perfect backdrop on a nesting doll that can re-tell the story when each doll is opened to reveal even more animals from the ark. There are also Nativity Scenes, Mangers scenes, and a set of the Holy Family

Christmas and Holiday Dolls

These dolls are some of the best sellers. You just can't resist all of the different types of Santa's, International Christmas, Father Frost, Christmas Carol, Snowmen, Nutcracker, Nativity Scene, and Christmas Eve Nesting Dolls. You can now even find the "Charlie Brown Christmas" Nesting Doll. There is sure to be something here for everyone on your list. Another holiday you can find when looking for Nesting dolls, is Halloween. You can find Halloween Cats, and even the "Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown" Set of Nesting Dolls.

If you are just beginning your collection or have been collecting for years, the artists in Russia continue the tradition of hand painting these works of art so that you can always find something that is unique and beautiful that will fit perfectly into your collection.

Sherry Cox is an experienced doll collector with expert knowledge on many doll artists and several different lines of collectible dolls. As an avid collector herself, she writes a monthly syndicated column answering many of your questions on doll collecting, determining the value of your dolls, new doll releases, new doll artists, and many other topics that collectors have.

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What Type Of Porcelain Dolls To Collect

Doll collectors will find that porcelain dolls are mostly of high value and are available with a wide variety of themes. The themes can be fairytales, cartoons, the wild wild west, European classic pieces, or even movie character dolls. Yet the best porcelain dolls to collect are those that are made of the finest porcelain and embellished with exquisite fabrics and accessories. Antique porcelain dolls still make one of the best collections that a doll collector should start but it requires a big investment. It does not only require money but it necessarily requires time and effort in sourcing the best items available.

Another challenge for most antique porcelain doll collectors is that it is hard to find vintage pieces that are authentic due to its rarity. Most European porcelain doll manufacturers of the late 1700s only produce a limited number of their masterpieces and most vary in design. With this in mind, porcelain dolls in this era are of high value due to its rarity. In addition to that, collectors are assured that no piece is alike. The creativity and the time spent on handcrafting each doll also add to its value. But for those who are looking for vintage dolls that are of high value, it should be noted that the condition of the porcelain doll should be almost like as it was made in its era.

To better determine the condition of the porcelain doll, buyers should check for nicks and chips on the doll's edges and paint. Scrutinize further if there are any crack or stains on the porcelain as these are the most common issues in storing porcelain for ages. Aside from checking the porcelain body and face of the doll, the doll's dress is one of the most important accessories that collectors should assess. Check if the fabric is still intact since ageing can cause the fabric to disintegrate or to get ripped easily. If the doll comes with accessories such as shoes, hats, and necklaces, check for the authenticity of the items as some sellers may have already changed these. These accessories may not be the original ones that came with the doll.

Furthermore, when choosing for the types of dolls to collect, it is necessary to start a collection based on a theme. Say if collecting vintage dolls is the primary purpose of the collector, then one can start acquiring vintage European style dolls or perhaps porcelain dolls from various countries in their traditional clothing. The best thing about keeping a theme is that it can help would-be collectors to easily start a showcase without being disorganized.

If you would like to get started in collecting dolls, or introduce a loved one to the tradition of doll collecting it might be a good idea to start with dolls that interest them and are of relatively low cost. Our Generation Dolls are great for younger girls while Monster High Dolls might be better aimed at pre-teen and teenage young ladies.