ANNETTE HIMSTEDT of Germany is recognized as one of the world’s finest doll artists. It was of great sadness to her worldwide collectors that Annette decided to close her manufacturing factory in Germany in March, 2009.

Annette Himstedt released her first dolls the “Barefoot Children” to the public in 1986 and set the doll collecting world in a buzz. Over the past two decades, she has created dolls noted for their realism, expression, and exquisite materials. Her dolls have won numerous awards.

All of the Himstedt dolls are made of hand-painted vinyl, with mouth-blown glass eyes, human hair, and outfits that make extensive use of exquisite hand-dyed fabrics, including linen fabrics, linen and twisted buttons, bows of silk, lace, and velvet, and hand-knitted socks. The level of craftsmanship evident in her creations is extraordinary.