Unknown artist, Untitled, 18th century, Wood, paint, mixed materials.
Just like almost every young girl, Reesey Shaw received a dollhouse of her very own.
But at eleven years old instead of filling the house with Barbies or modern doll furniture, Reesey dedicated her time to finding antique pieces to place in the house. Influenced by her mother’s own larger collection of antique furniture, Reesey would buy small collector's items to go into her dollhouse, a true artist and art historian at work. This wasn’t just a toy—it was a tiny, miniature museum, a world of history and imagination wrapped up in a small, wooden structure.
The dollhouse now stands as a testament to the wonder and creativity of childhood. From the brilliantly painted walls to scenes of bullfighters and restful chairs, every piece seems alive with movement and vibrancy. In one room, a doll in a lemon dress stands invitingly, welcoming visitors to explore a space where historical memory mingles with the dreams of a young girl. The varying sizes of the objects in each room create a whimsical, Alice-in-Wonderland-like effect—where the viewer can lose themselves for hours, studying the intricate details and thoughtful placement of each item.
Unknown artist, Untitled, 18th century, Wood, paint, mixed materials.
There was one fixture that stood out above all the rest: an iron stove. It wasn’t just any stove—it was heavy, old, and almost regal, with intricate ironwork. Bought for five dollars from the endless savings of the owner’s weekly allowance, it is the most expensive item in the collection and represents a centerpiece in the dollhouse, its small, ornate details adding a touch of elegance to the rooms, and making the tiny space reverberate with history.
Another part of the dollhouse that is truly unique: its origins.
Made in 1850 by an unnamed enslaved person in South Carolina, Reesey’s mother bought the house from a family that had passed it down for generations. The craftsmanship was remarkable, even though the creator’s name had been lost to history.
Eventually, lights were added to the dollhouse to showcase the objects inside. When the house was lit up at night, it became a glowing, magical little world. The lights cast long shadows, making the furniture and figurines appear ghost-like. Even now, when the dollhouse glows softly in the dark, it evokes a sense of wonder. One small, whimsical creation holds so much imagination, so much history, and so much heart.
Unknown artist, Untitled (interior view), 18th century, Wood, paint, mixed materials.
Unknown artist, Untitled (room detail), 18th century, Wood, paint, mixed materials.
Unknown artist, Untitled (room detail), 18th century, Wood, paint, mixed materials.
Unknown Artist, Lady in the Lemon Dress, 18th century
Unknown artist, Untitled (room detail), 18th century, Wood, paint, mixed materials.
Unknown artist, Untitled (room detail), 18th century, Wood, paint, mixed materials.
