MY SWEET DARLING ~ MEIN LIEBLING by Abbingdon Auctions Graeme Horne

MY SWEET DARLING ~ MEIN LIEBLING by Abbingdon Auctions Graeme Horne

The German company Kammer & Reinhardt (1886–1930) believed the popularity of ball-jointed bisque dolls surged when they began referring to them as “Mein Liebling” (My Darling) around 1902. However, it was the 117 series from 1911 that truly defined the name and elevated the status of these iconic dolls.

Origins and Development of the 117 Series

The 117 model, bearing the trademark “Mein Liebling,” features a superbly crafted closed mouth and a poignant expression that continues to captivate collectors. Originally named “Mein Süßer Liebling” (My Sweet Darling), she is known today simply as Mein Liebling. 

In 1902, Kammer & Reinhardt began a notable collaboration with Simon & Halbig. Prior to this, recognizable K&R marks were limited to “K&R 192” and “K&R.” The early model of the 117 was incised with “K Star R // Simon & Halbig 117 // Size number.” The 117A mold is believed to have been introduced later. 

Why Mein Liebling Is Revered

Mein Liebling is a delicate blend of a traditional dolly face and a character face. It’s her exquisitely modeled mouth that has earned her reverence—evoking comparisons to the Mona Lisa for its subtle expressiveness. The upper lip and puffier lower lip give her a touching, emotional quality. 

The mouth was painted in a variety of styles depending on the painter’s touch. Some were matte with no accents, while others featured glossy lips and a darker center line. Dolls with an oily bisque finish tend to showcase a more natural lip appearance, which is highly sought after among collectors. 

These dolls typically fetch between $3,000 and $12,000 at auction, depending on size (31cm to 76cm) and condition. 

Eyes, Variants, and Body Features

Eye painting varied—some had angled upper and lower lashes, others had vertical tapered lower lashes. The original 117 models had a rounder eyecut, while the 117A offered a slightly oval eyecut and a broader mouth. 

There were even open-mouth versions with visible upper teeth, which are rare and highly collectible. 

Bodies were full ball-jointed composition, with some stamped “Heinrich Handwerck.” A smaller version of the 117A came with stiff legs, and the 117A was also released as a boy—distinguished by a short mohair wig. 

Later Models: 117n and 117x

From 1916 to 1930, Kammer & Reinhardt introduced the “117n” mold, known as “Mein Neuer Liebling” (My New Darling). With a mischievous face, open mouth, and sleeping glass eyes, she brought a playful charm. Some elite versions had flirty eyes, tin sleeping eyelids, and a unique mischief mechanism. 

The 117n originally featured a ball-jointed body, but later versions came with rubber hands and slender bodies, sometimes stamped “H.” These dolls were often dressed in intricate, factory-produced outfits, which are now rare to find complete. 

The “117x” model is thought to be a transitional size between the 117 and 117n, with an almond-shaped eyecut and limited production. 

Legacy of Mein Liebling

The “Mein Liebling 117” series remains one of the most emotionally resonant and artistically crafted dolls in the world of antique collecting. Her subtle expression and unforgettable mouth have made her a legendary figure among character dolls desired by collectors and admired for generations. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What does “Mein Liebling” mean? 

 A: “Mein Liebling” is German for “My Darling.” The name was used by Kammer & Reinhardt for a series of character dolls, starting around 1902. 

Q2: What is the difference between 117 and 117A? 

 A: The 117A has a more oval eye cut and slightly wider mouth compared to the 117. Both are highly prized, though the 117A may also appear as a boy version. 

Q3: How much are Mein Liebling dolls worth? 

 A: Depending on condition and size (31cm to 76cm), closed-mouth 117 or 117A models typically fetch between $3,000 and $12,000 at auction. 

Q4: What makes the Mein Liebling doll so special? 

 A: Her poignant expression, particularly the mouth, sets her apart. The craftsmanship is considered exceptional, evoking emotional responses from collectors. 

Q5: What is the 117n model? 

 A: Introduced between 1916 and 1930, the 117n (“Mein Neuer Liebling”) has a mischievous look, sleeping eyes, and was made with multiple body types and hairstyles.