Toys Toys Toys

A History of Toys
Antonia Fraser
Weidenfeld and Nicolson, London, 1966 

A fantastic and authoritative history of toys from pre-history to the 1960s. Lots of dolls houses for those interested in that sort of thing, plus many other more strange items that would have entertained and scared kids, and inspired a number of artists, designers and film-makers.

A terrifying Victorian 'Shoe Doll'

The Osmonds favourite - Cheesy Horses

The monkey automata could be straight out of Sleuth (1972), whose trailer features a lovely snippet of Johnny Scott.

The louche 20s

Which Sindy are you?

Toofy Tiger (China, early 20th century)