Collection

Gorham Dolls

Since 1831, the name Gorham has been synonymous with the highest standards of quality. And, in the world of collectible dolls, the Gorham hallmark is a symbol of exceptional artistry, workmanship, and exquisite detailing, crafted to retain their beauty for generations. Gorham dolls become prized family heirlooms, and reflect cherished dreams brought magically to life. Created by uniquely talented artists, Gorham dolls are award-winning examples of superb craftsmanship. Therefore many have increased in value well beyond their original issue price.

The creativity if the innovative 19th century doll masters inspired Gorham artisans. Their ability to bring fantasy to form and their insistence on quality craftsmanship matched Gorham's own high standards. In 1981, the first ten collectible dolls by Gorham were introduced. These were lead by Jillian, a 16 inch bisque beauty, dressed in a luxurious cream satin and chiffon gown. A new and important milestone in doll making had been created. Today Jillian is valued at more than double her original issue price. Gorham believed that dolls were truly unique works of art that touched our innermost feelings and evoked hopes and dreams of childhood. Due to this belief, Gorham introduced new and varied original creations for many years.

The Gorham Doll Artists

Susan Stone Aiken

Gorham's first doll was born in the vivid imagination of Susan Stone Aiken, who was inspired byt he extraordinary creations of the French artisans. Susan Stone Aiken was asked to develop an heirloom doll that would capture child-like beauty and evoke the romance of the age of elegance. After extensive historic research, Susan created designs that were so breathtaking that she was invited to create Gorham's entire first collection, a collection that was destined to become the standard by which contemporary dolls were judged and that won Susan Stone Aiken the title, "First Lady of Gorham Dolls." Since the introductions of her first doll, Susan Stone Aiken has been acclaimed in the national doll publications and competitions. Her designs continue to be honored with nominations and awards from the doll community.

Since Gorham's first doll by Susan Stone Aiken in 1981, other distinguished doll artists have been commissioned by Gorham to create original dolls. These artists include Brenda Elixabeth Gerardi, Lia Dileo, Noel and Pamela Valentine, Matthew Kezi, Dolores Valenza, Estelle Worrell, Ron and Laurie Schrubbe, Joan Pilallis, and Elisabeth Woodhouse, among other renowned, international artists.

A Tradition of Craftsmanship

Collectible dolls have been made from a wide variety of materials, however, Gorham believed that the soft matte finish and translucent qualities of fine bisque porcelain rendered the most lifelike dolls. Unlike other mediums, time has proven that porcelain retained its original beauty generation after generation.

Gorham doll are hand-painted and completed with fine features, such as glass paperweight eyes and lifelike wigs.