Glazed China Heads are one of three types of porcelain dolls. The other two are untinted bisque, and tinted bisque. The Glazed China Heads were produced from 1830 to 1880. They are called glazed china heads because the painted featured and coloring of the cheeks were painted using china paints which were fired to fix them to the surface. Heavy coats of glaze were then fired onto the surface of the head, over the painted features. This gave the heads their glossy appearance, and allowed the white porcelain underneath to show. The glazed china heads are rarely seen with all over tinting. Because of the fine texture of porcelain, it could be used to produce detailed doll heads. The hairstyles were molded in the styles of the period with intricate bows, curls and jewels. The dolls were also dressed to duplicate the fine dresses worn by fashionable ladies of the period.
It is very difficult to identify the makers and periods of the glazed china heads. Many dolls were not marked, while others have their markings inside the heads. Markings inside of the heads poses a problem because in order to see the marking, the head must be removed from the body, which alters the original condition, thus decreasing the value of the doll.
The majority of
the glazed china heads are shoulder heads, although a few ball and socket
type heads were created. Not all glazed china heads were ornate and representative
of the high fashions of the time. Many dolls were produced with simple
hairstyles and clothing and usually portrayed boys, children, or babies.