Originally designed and made by Girard for his own home in Santa Fe, the Wooden Dolls were inspired by his extensive personal collection of folk art. Part decorative object, part toy, the Wooden Dolls were originally created for Girard’s own use. Based on originals found in the Girard Estate held by the Vitra Design Museum, the whimsical assortment of dolls, both joyful and grim, are now available as a charming enhancement to any interior. The Wooden Doll dog sits beautifully alongside others in the collection, in particular the Wooden Doll Cat.
Designer Alexander Girard was born to an American mother and an Italian father in 1907 in New York City. Along with his close friends and contemporaries George Nelson and Charles & Ray Eames, Girard was one of the leading figures of postwar American modern design.
Textile design was the main focus of his wide-ranging design career which also encompassed architecture, interior design, furniture design and industrial design. Perhaps his most iconic designs are his collection of hand-painted Wooden Dolls with are now produced under licence by Vitra.
