A collection of contemporary dolls that celebrate the holiday, this beautiful book will bring out the Christmas spirit in all who open its pages. Over 200 colour photographs of dolls by today's top international artists and manufacturers bring to life every aspect of this beloved holiday. Pursley has arranged the book by the many themes that represent Christmas: Madonnas and nativity-scene figures, interpretations of Santa and his helpers, carollers and characters from favourite Christmas stories, children of Christmas present and glamorous fashion dolls, all decked out for the holidays. Accompanying the works, by makers such as John and Angela Barker, Rotraut Schrott, Helen Kish, Wendy Lawton, Robert Tonner and Käthe Kruse, is Pursley's affecting narrative of the traditions, memories, hopes and wishes that have inspired these pieces. Whether displayed each year with decorations and ornaments as a treasured part of the holiday tradition, or enjoyed as a way to keep the Christmas spirit alive all year long, "Christmas Dolls" reflects the timeless appeal of its subject.