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This unusual-looking doll was found by a mudlarker in a brook in Leicestershire earlier this year. A remarkable find, the lead- alloy female figure is the only complete example of such a doll currently recorded on the PAS database.
The artefact dates to c.1500-1650, and measures 51.7mm by 28.3mm. Its flat shape is similar to that of other examples, such as SUR-2DC8B1, LEIC-1ECA15, YORYM-DD07C4, and DUR-C8991B on the database. Like many of these, the doll has a semi-circular head and is wearing what appears to be a headdress. The triangular nose, upturned line of a mouth, and pellet eyes are also typical features of such finds.
The diagnostic element of these dolls are their skirts, which are usually highly decorated with geometric patterns. Skirts are often found detached from the torsos of the dolls, but in this case we can appreciate the full assemblage of the figure’s intricate dress. The triangular panel of the skirt is known from other examples, and the torso decorations are identical to LEIC-1ECA15, which was found very close by. The reverse sides of the skirts are not always decorated, but in our example the geometric designs on both the skirt and the torso continue to the back of the dress. The back of the head is decorated with the initials ‘TT’, which could possibly be a maker’s mark.
The exact function of these dolls is not certain, but they are thought to have been toys. It has been suggested that their flat design made them a cheaper version of hollow cast-lead alloy figurine toys from the mid- to late 16th century. These hollow dolls are particular to London, so it is interesting that the flat versions mostly appear in rural locations in the Midlands and North.
For more information about this doll, see https://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/record/id/1153911 or search for LEIC-6FE3D3 on the PAS database.
The Portable Antiquities Scheme is an initiative to encourage the recording of archaeological objects found by members of the public in England and Wales. For more information on the Scheme, and to browse its database of more than 1.5 million finds, visit www.finds.org.uk.
Text: Rebecca Preedy / Image: Derby Museums Trust
