Doll Toys
Doll toys have their origins dating back to thousands and thousands of years ago. In fact, archaeologists have discovered miniature figures which predate our recorded human history. There have been many designs in existence, created all over the world. In addition to this variety of location and structure, there is also a variety in purpose.
In fact, many of these doll toys do not seem to have been created for the purpose of play at all. As far as those studying such artifacts can tell, the figurines of ancient times were often used ritualistically. A few centuries ago, they were traded between countries to keep the upper classes informed of the latest styles in other regions. Today, they are primarily designed to entertain children.
Doll toys have benefitted from many advancements in technology over the centuries. Originally, as far as evidence shows, they were created from wood, clay, bone, and other natural materials. Paper and cloth were the next major step. After this porcelain and china followed by rubber were more common. Today, a variety of synthetic materials are much more standard.