Identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
Identified as a Chinese Peking Opera doll based on the characteristic painted face, traditional costume, and boots. The plastic hands and overall construction indicate a mid-to-late 20th-century manufacture, likely as a souvenir or decorative piece.
Story
These dolls were widely produced in China during the mid-to-late 20th century, often intended for the export market or as tourist souvenirs. They depict traditional characters from Peking Opera, characterized by their elaborate costumes, painted faces, and specific headdresses. The use of plastic and synthetic materials points to a post-1950s manufacturing date. The secondary market for mid-century Chinese cultural and tourist dolls is saturated and generally soft.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
For dolls of this era and material, value is heavily dependent on the preservation of the fabric and the painted face. Fading, dust accumulation on the textiles, or chipping to the painted plastic or composition elements are common issues that detract from value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
The secondary market for mid-century Chinese cultural and tourist dolls is saturated and generally soft. These were popular export and souvenir items in the mid-to-late 20th century, resulting in high availability today. Buyers are typically casual collectors of Asian folk art or decorative arts. Most examples trade under $50 unless they are exceptionally large, antique (pre-1900), or feature high-end silk and porcelain construction.
▲ Elaborate traditional Peking Opera costume and painted face appeal to decorative collectors.
▲ Mid-century vintage status provides modest historical appeal over modern mass-produced equivalents.
▲ Standard display scale (likely 7-10 inches) makes it easy to display and ship.
▼ Unverified presence of original packaging or display case limits the premium collector appeal.
▼ Unverified completeness of small accessories (headdress elements, handheld props) could lower value if missing.
▼ High market saturation of similar mid-century export dolls caps the overall ceiling.
Best Venue
List on broad secondary marketplaces like eBay or Etsy, as this is a decorative collectible rather than a fine antique. Ensure the doll is gently dusted and photograph the face, boots, and costume details clearly. Pricing it around $25-$30 with a 'Buy It Now' option is the most practical strategy for a steady sale.
Upside Potential
If the doll is accompanied by its original display case, box, or retains a specific maker's tag from a noted Chinese export studio, the value could push toward the $45-$50 retail ceiling seen on platforms like Etsy.