Barbie doll with accessories
Object No. A8816
Barbie, the world's favourite doll, was introduced at the New York Toy Fair in 1959 by Mattel Inc. Designed by Ruth Handler and named after her daughter, the 295mm Barbie was the first doll to represent the fashion-accessorised teenager that young girls aspired to become. Television marketing was another very successful first for Mattel, and the continually changing fashion outfits and accessories kept sales moving. Barbie was joined by her boyfriend Ken in 1961, girlfriend Midge in 1963 and little sister Skipper in 1964. She arrived in Australia in 1962 on the wave of a youth revolution. Barbie was able to bend her knees from 1964, and in 1967 a 'Twist'N Turn' waist enabled her to dance the night away. She was altered in 1967 and 1978 to update her facial features. From the early feminine careers of fashion model and ballerina, Barbie graduated to the more assertive astronaut, surgeon, executive, UNICEF ambassador, pilot and rock star. In 1992 it was estimated that a Barbie was sold every two seconds. This collection of doll, clothes and accessories donated by Belinda Webb is a miniature document of the fashions, attitudes and aspirations of the years from 1959 onwards.
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Summary
Object Statement
Doll, 'Barbie', with clothes and accessories, various materials, Mattel, Japan / United States of America / Australia, c.1963
Physical Description
Blonde Barbie doll with clothing, accessories and wardrobe. The clothing includes various ensembles made by Mattel including 'Holiday Dance', 'Poodle Parade', 'Outdoor Life', 'Aboard Ship', 'Under Fashions' and 'Gold 'N Glamour'. There is also a selection of clothing made by the donor's grandmother. Accessories include shoes, jewellery, handbags, stockings, gloves, wigs, sunglasses and books. The grey wooden wardrobe was made by the donor's father.
PRODUCTION
Notes
This Barbie doll and many of the accessories were made by Mattel Pty Ltd in Japan and America. Some of the clothing was made by the donor's grandmother Bernice Webb and the wardrobe was made by the donor's father Maxwell Webb.
HISTORY
Notes
This Barbie doll and accessories was owned by Belinda Webb who received the doll in about 1964. She played with the doll and expanded Barbie's wardrobe between the ages of seven and eleven, adding store bought ensembles and home made clothing.
SOURCE
Credit Line
Gift of Belinda Webb, 1983
Acquisition Date
28 February 1983
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