Dolls Beyond Play
The Cultural Significance of Dolls
More than toys. More than play. Dolls are culture, memory, and meaning made miniature.
From sacred ritual objects to tools of socialization, fashion icons to art pieces, Dolls Beyond Play uncovers the profound role dolls have played across human history.
Anthropologist and lifelong collector Erick DuPree offers an expansive, richly illustrated journey through the global story of dolls—tracing their evolution from prehistoric figurines and royal collectibles to Barbie, ball-jointed dolls, and the digital dolls of our present age.
Blending cultural history, psychology, gender studies, and personal memoir, DuPree explores how dolls shape identity, reflect societal values, and inspire connection across generations and geographies. With particular attention to marginalized stories—Black dolls, queer collectors, and global artisans—this book invites readers to see dolls not as childish things, but as powerful cultural artifacts.
Whether you are a collector, artist, academic, or simply doll-curious, Dolls Beyond Play will change the way you see what we once called toys—and what they’ve always truly been: mirrors of our humanity.
“Erick DuPree’s “Dolls Beyond Play” is an important step forward in bringing down this unnatural reluctance to actually address the subject of dolls, to acknowledge their importance and cultural significance. I laud DuPree’s scope of vision and frankness in planting the flag of academic rigor and focus on the subject of dolls. And I trust that this important volume will be only the first of many to treat the singularly intrinsic and universal subject that is the doll.”
— ALAN SCOTT PATE, AUTHOR, NINGYO: THE ART OF THE JAPANESE DOLL
“DuPree has masterfully written a must-read for every collector in the doll community with an unapologetic approach to discovering the historical and cultural impact dolls have on individuals and society, while exploring our deeply personal relationships with dolls.”
— CONNIE JAMES REYNOLDS, PRESIDENT, THE UNITED FEDERATION OF DOLL CLUBS, INC
“Dolls Beyond Play takes care to include the intricate history of Black dolls, revealing layers of complexity often overlooked. This enlightening journey celebrates the resilience of Black heritage, making it a must-read for those passionate about cultural representation.”
— BARBARA WHITEMAN, DIRECTOR, THE PHILADELPHIA DOLL MUSEUM
“Dolls Beyond Play is not just a book; it's a celebration of doll collectors' passion and dedication. DuPree's exploration of dolls as symbols of culture and identity is a must-read, shedding light on their impact on society and the need to integrate technology into the collecting world. From their profound influence on social media to the rich tapestry of doll history, this book makes collectors feel seen for their invaluable contributions. An essential addition to any doll lover's library!"
— RACHEL HOFFMAN, FOUNDER, VIRTUAL DOLL CONVENTION
"Erick DuPree's profound insights into doll culture redefine our understanding of identity, gender, and social history. 'Dolls Beyond Play: The Cultural Significance of Dolls' is expansive, and likely one of the largest single-volume social histories of dolls, offering invaluable perspectives on the impact of these cherished artifacts."
— SOPHIE MORRIS, CURATOR, THE VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM
“The saga of dolls is one that spans the length of human history—a constantly changing reflection of our own evolution and innova‐ tion. Erick DuPree masterfully connects the threads of culture across the east and the west spanning centuries--colonialism, capi‐ talism, and artistic technique. This is a thrilling read for doll collectors who understand this deeply personal relationship—and anyone interested in the passionate story of humanity’s efforts to recreate itself in miniature.”
— ASTOR YANG, DOLLS DESIGNER, CREATIVE DIRECTOR, AY COLLECTIVE
“A deep dive into information about a world you didn't know existed. Erick's book will make you redefine how you look at dolls. With the cultural impact of what they are, you will never pass by a French Bru again without acknowledging her history.”
— JOEY VERSAW, DOLL ARTIST & CO-HOST: FASHION DOLL HISTORY VLOG