Rare Tete Jumeau “Au Defi” Bebe c1890s – Serving Auckland & Christchurch Collectors

New Zealand’s community of serious doll collectors and antique enthusiasts continues to grow, particularly in Auckland and Christchurch. For those seeking museum-quality French bisque dolls, Lot 96 – Special Commission “Tete Jumeau” Bebe for Au Defi Boutique c1890s presents an exceptional opportunity.

This rare 30” (76cm) companion bisque doll represents the artistry and prestige associated with late 19th-century French dollmaking. Whether you are collecting from Auckland’s North Shore or Christchurch’s Fendalton and Riccarton areas, you can bid confidently online and compete for this investment-grade piece.

Collectors seeking authentic French bisque dolls can view the complete catalogue at Abbingdon Auctions.

About Lot 96 – Special Commission Tete Jumeau Bebe

This outstanding companion doll features:

• Open mouth with red peek accents and delicate inner shading
• Applied pierced ears with drop earrings
• Blue Guepratte paperweight eyes
• Bold angled lashes
• Long arched brown gloss brows with fine feathering
• Neck incised “14” with checkmark
• Cork antique pate with faint maker’s cupid stamp
• Jumeau blue cap human hair long ringlet wig
• Original circular neck attachment
• Chunky French ball-jointed wood composition body
• Jointed wrists with minor paint flakes

A particularly rare feature is the gold back paper label:

“Au Defi // 6 De Specialite De Bebes // 10 Rue Adolphe Thiers // Marseille // Reparations”

The final word partially missing reveals an earlier red print label underneath — a highly desirable detail for provenance-focused collectors.

She retains her antique original cream pique and French lace dress, whitewear petticoat, woollen cream petticoat, black socks, black leather shoes, and cream silk bonnet.

Estimate: $1,800 – $2,500

Why This Doll Appeals to NZ Collectors

1. Investment-Grade French Bisque

Late 19th-century Jumeau dolls remain among the most desirable in the global antique doll market. Rare boutique commissions such as this “Au Defi” example are increasingly difficult to source.

2. Strong Demand in Auckland

Auckland collectors frequently seek high-quality European bisque dolls for private collections and long-term investment. Secure online bidding and reliable international shipping make participation seamless.

3. Growing Interest in Christchurch

Christchurch collectors value authenticity, condition transparency, and original costume elements — all of which enhance this doll’s desirability.

4. Detailed Catalogue Transparency

Comprehensive descriptions, clear estimates, and condition notes allow NZ bidders to make informed decisions before placing bids.

Convenient Online Bidding for Auckland & Christchurch

Collectors across New Zealand can participate without international travel. Benefits include:

• Online live bidding
• Absentee bidding options
• Professional condition reporting
• Secure international shipping to NZ
• Transparent buyer terms

Whether you are bidding from central Auckland, Takapuna, Remuera, Riccarton, or Fendalton, access to this rare French commission doll is just a few clicks away.

A Rare Opportunity for Serious Collectors

Special commission Jumeau dolls bearing boutique labels such as “Au Defi” are seldom offered. The combination of:

• Impressive 30” companion size
• Original costume elements
• Boutique Marseille label
• Desirable facial modelling and paperweight eyes

makes Lot 96 a standout offering for collectors in both the North and South Islands.

Final Thoughts

For collectors across New Zealand particularly in Auckland and Christchurch Lot 96 offers a rare opportunity to secure a late 19th-century French Tete Jumeau Bebe with boutique provenance and strong investment appeal.

With transparent bidding, professional cataloguing, and secure international delivery, participating in this sale is both convenient and rewarding.

Register now at Abbingdon Auctions to secure your chance to bid on this exceptional Tête Jumeau Bebe.