Summary

Doll in its original box with original straw and paper packaging. It was purchased for Rosemary Norman for her sixth birthday by her mother during a trip to London in 1939. The doll is dressed in what is a representation of a German regional costume. The doll also has two extra pairs of knickers and a pinafore made by Rosemary's nanny, probably during the 1940s.

The Norman family travelled to London in early 1939. Rosemary's father was Manager of the Orient Line's Melbourne Branch. For her sixth birthday in July that year, Rosemary's mother Nerelle took her to a large toy store there, possibly Hambley's. Nerelle selected a doll for Rosemary but she didn't want that one, she saw the doll she would name Sweedie and wanted her. Her mother was disinclined and Rosemary recalls she stood in the middle of the shop and threw a tantrum, screaming and stamping her feet with rage, until her mother said she could have Sweedie. Rosemary loved Sweedie and shows some wear and tear, including a couple of finger ends chewed by the family dog. Rosemary believes that might be why Sweedie was 'put away in a cupboard' until she was older.

The extra knickers and pinafore were made by Rosemary's nursemaid/nanny Nellie McKay. Nellie was a trained chef, recruited in London to work for the Normans at the Orient Line property 'Taormina' in Stonnington Place in Toorak. The Normans entertained frequently to generate custom for the Orient Line and Nellie cooked for those occasions as well as for the family. Rosemary spent her early years with Nellie, often in the kitchen and Nellie taught her to sew and knit.

Physical Description

Doll with porcelain head and composition body. She has articulated knees, elbows and wrists and blinking eyelids. The original box has adhered stickers on lid and the silver detail was originally green. The doll has blond hair and is fully dressed in a dress, pinafore, leather shoes and socks, undergarments and a cap.

Significance

This doll provides an insight into the play and material culture of children in Australia from more privileged backgrounds. There is also an interesting connection to the Orient Shipping Line through the donor's father. The doll also demonstrates the popularity of regional costumed dolls for both children and adults.

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