Dolls

The first documented use of dolls as toys dates back to 1st century AD Greece, although there is evidence of dolls made from rough materials used for magical and religious purposes as far back as 2000 BC. The first set of Russian 'babushka' or 'matryoshka' dolls were created in the late 19th century, crafted from wood and inspired by traditional Japanese dolls. China dolls depicting young girls were also produced in the 19th and 20th centuries across Western Europe; although originally marketed as children's toys, they are considered today as collectors' items and can hold great value. Similarly, vintage doll's houses - alongside their accompanying furniture and figurines - have become highly sought after. Since the release of the first vinyl Barbie in the late 1950s, the majority of contemporary dolls have been made of plastic and enjoyed by children as playthings; however, some limited edition Barbie dolls come with eye-watering price tags, such as jewelry designer Stefano Canturi's diamond-adorned creation, which sold for $300,000 in an auction at Christie's, New York.