What are So Called Antique Belton type Dolls?

The common characteristic’s of so called Belton type antique dolls are 1. a solid dome bisque head, 2. an uncut pate with one, two or three holes in the top of the head crown. 

Belton type dolls are sized 9 to 24″ tall, usually a bisque socket head on a composition jointed body, occasionally a bisque shoulder head on a kid body is found, even turned shoulder heads.  Belton type dolls, usually do not have a doll makers initial or symbol in the marking, only a size number or mold number.

So called Belton type dolls are not attributed to any single antique doll maker, dolls are probably German, but usually attributed to the French.  It’s also possible, Belton-type dolls were made in both countries.  Examples of antique bisque head Belton type dolls made between 1870 to early 1900’s are shown below. Click images to enlarge.