When it comes to American dolls, Beatrice Alexander (1895-1990) is recognized as a trailblazer. As the
founder of The Madame Alexander Doll Company, and as a Jewish woman in a male-dominated field,
she distinguished herself by embracing innovation. She introduced ideas and materials that would
become standard in doll manufacture, including developing dolls based on licensed characters, using
plastic as her primary construction material, and debuting a full-figured fashion doll years before Barbie.
Connecting these innovations was a passion for history, culture, fashion, and the potential for dolls to
introduce their young owners to the larger world. In the words of Alexander herself, “Dolls should
contribute to a child’s understanding of people, other times and other places.”
In celebration of Madame Alexander’s centenary, this intimate exhibition examines her company’s
history and legacy. From her sophistication as a fashion designer to her savvy use of modern materials,
this show considers Alexander’s significant legacy within the world of doll design.
“Love is in the details.” –Madame Alexander
