Just think about it—these miniature replicas of homes weren’t made for kids at all. Surprising, right? They were crafted for adults who had a thing for collecting and showing off expensive miniatures.
Imagine a dollhouse, elaborately designed with fine materials, showcasing ornate furniture, little porcelain dishes, and delicate artwork.
This wasn’t child’s play; these baby houses were all about flaunting the wealth of European aristocracy. They were a status symbol, reflecting the tastes and riches of their owners.
Early Beginnings of dollhouses in 16th Century Europe
The story of dollhouses begins in Europe during the late 1500s. Originally known as “baby houses” or “cabinet houses,” these miniature homes were not designed for children.
a cabinet dollhouse
The first recorded European dollhouse dates back to 1558 in Germany, created for Duke Albrecht V of Bavaria for his daughter.
Although this particular dollhouse was destroyed in a fire in 1647, inventory records provided valuable insights into its elaborate design. (but there’s sadly no more picture)
Exhibiting Wealth and Craftsmanship
Early European dollhouses were unique, custom-built masterpieces that often mirrored the owner’s own residence.
These intricate models featured meticulously crafted furniture, miniature books, paintings, maps, globes, tapestries, and rugs.
The attention to detail was remarkable, showcasing not only artistic skill but also the social status of their owners.
Queen Mary’s dollhouse is one of the most renowned examples, boasting features such as electricity, running water, and even functional gas-powered cars in its garage.
This particular project took nearly four years and involved approximately 1,500 artists to complete.
Transition to Educational Tools in the Late 17th Century
By the late 1600s, dollhouses began to serve a more educational purpose.
Known as “Nuremberg kitchens,” these metal-constructed houses shifted away from ornamental displays to utilitarian tools.
They were now used to teach children, especially girls, about household management and social roles.
Victorian Dollhouses: Mirrors of Society
The 18th century saw the emergence of Victorian dollhouses, which were exact replicas of their owners’ homes.
These dollhouses continued the tradition of displaying wealth but also began to incorporate elements of everyday life.
Each room was carefully set up to resemble its real-life counterpart, providing a snapshot of the domestic environment of the time.
Unlike their predecessors, Victorian dollhouses were intended for amusement and imaginative play, bridging the gap between luxury displays and children’s toys.
Take a tour of The Juliana, a Victorian dollhouse!
Mass Production and Accessibility in the 19th Century
The 19th century brought significant changes with the advent of the Industrial Revolution.
Dollhouses could now be mass-produced, making them more affordable and accessible to the middle class.
This shift transformed dollhouses from exclusive luxury items into common household toys.
Factory-made dollhouses varied in design and materials, ranging from simple wooden models to more elaborate plastic versions.
The 20th century introduced new materials and manufacturing techniques that further popularized dollhouses.
In the 1940s, the use of brightly colored plastics made dollhouses more durable and affordable. (Barbie)
This period also saw an expansion in styles and sizes, catering to diverse tastes and budgets.
In the video below, you will find a complete explanation of the history of dollhouses, in even more depth, check it out!
My Final Conclusion
Today, dollhouses are not only cherished as toys but also as historical artifacts. They are featured in museums and private collections, offering insights into the domestic life and social norms of different periods.
I hope you enjoyed this article on when dollhouses were invented and a little bit more history on them!
If you have any more questions, please feel free to leave them down below in the comment section and I will get right back to you!
