Schildkrot-Puppen Wichtels

At Schildkrot, the traditional craftsmanship of doll making has been passed down through generations since 1896. It took its name Schildkrot (meaning turtle), after the new hard plastic called celluloid become available. It still operates on the site of the earlier 'Gummi and Celluloid Factory' which began in 1873.

When celluloid was invented and first came to prominence during the 1870's, dolls were nearly all breakable and fragile. Bisque and porcelain dolls were easily shattered and papier-mâché and wax easily ruined. So, it wasn't a surprise that doll companies started experimenting with celluloid to mould dolls. By the early 1900's, celluloid dolls were plentiful since it was easily moulded and generally inexpensive. Modern and pioneering at the time, Schildkrot has survived as the oldest doll manufacturer in Germany, with its turtle logo intact, it's a true treasure for all.

Today, the wonderful 30cm Wichtel dolls they produce will leave you speechless. They are designed by the German artist Rosemarie Müller, who describes her gnomes as "balm for the soul". These adorable little ones have the most enchanting faces which are hand painted, full hard vinyl bodies, hand-knotted real hair wigs, stunning hand blown solid glass eyes from Lauscha.

UPDATE: January 2023

Schildkrot has been purchased by Hape Holding, AG*. Hape also purchased Kathe Kruse in 2013, purchased Kidz 'n' Cats in 2016, and launched Kruselings in 2018..

Liesel

Gretel

Heidi

Frieda

Renata

Please click on their names to see more photos of each doll (it will open a new window).

In the photos below are Heidi (Lea - RM 6.0) and Gretel (Rosi - RM 15.0). They are delightful little dolls and so much fun to photograph even though they have only 5 points of articulation.

Both dolls are wearing their original costuming, which is extremely well made.

* Hape Holding AG was established in Germany in 1986 by Peter Handstein. Today Hape is a renowned high-end toy designer, manufacturer and distributor with offices located in Germany, Switzerland, Italy, France, United Kingdom, Spain, North America, Netherlands, Mainland China and Hong Kong.