Beautiful and adorable. Dolls from two centuries – Gerda Ott Collection

Opening Thursday, November 25, 18 p.m. to January 7, 2005

Dolls are among humanity's oldest toys. Cult and grave figurines mark the beginning of a history that continues to this day. Parallel to the discovery of childhood through pedagogy, the serial production of dolls and other toys developed, becoming an indispensable part of the everyday lives of children and adults alike. The exhibition features products from renowned manufacturers such as Kämmer & Reinhardt, Amand Marseille, Simon & Halbig, Kestner, Schildkröt, and Käthe Kruse. More than 150 dolls, including rare pieces such as the famous No. 117 a by Kämmer & Reinhardt, enchant the viewer and simultaneously provide an insight into the development of doll design since the beginning of the 19th century.

On November 30th and December 9th and 16th (each day from 15 p.m. to 18 p.m.), doll doctor Gerda Hosemann from Sindelfingen will be visiting the castle. She treats sick doll children and, upon request, will also estimate their value and age. Broken eyes, missing limbs, lost teeth, and other ailments are no problem for the doll doctor, who has been practicing for 30 years. For difficult cases, she has a large stock of spare parts at her home, which she has collected over many years at flea markets. Gerda Hosemann examines the young patients during her doll consultations and, if necessary, takes them home. There, broken fingers can also be remodeled using special tools. She then brings the healed dolls back to the next appointment. Doll mothers and fathers who want "therapy" for their doll children may have to come to the castle twice or, if necessary, pick up the doll in Sindelfingen. Parents who simply want their dolls evaluated are also welcome. Gerda Hosemann is a proven specialist in this area.