François Theimer Antique DOLLS, International Auction of TOYS & AUTOMATONS took place on Saturday March 24, 2007 at the Ambassador Hotel- Paris. A highlight of this auction was the famous Bibija Garella Collection, from the former owner of the Lenci company of Turin, Italy.

Among the pieces, were rare, never before seen prototypes , such as a 1995 remake of the original Josephine Baker 1926 doll, and the centerpiece of the collection, a magnificent, and very rare, vintage set of the Lenci Three Kings (Image 1), made from wool felt, a reminder of the mastery and attention to detail which were the hallmarks of their craft. Highlights from the closing prices follow (all prices are in Euros):

The Three Kings : 16,000 EU ( Image1)

Dschang Go : 2,300 EU (Image5)

Butterfly: 2,000 EU(Image 6)

Josephine Baker: 1,350 EU. (Image 3)

Autumn Googly, a 1994 remake with crystal eyes: 2,000 EU (Image2)

Lenci Angel, 2,200 EU ( Image4)

2. Lenci Prototype, a 1994 remake of the Autumn googly
with glass eyes closing price 2,000 EU
(Photo: François THEIMER)