Kaethe Kruse: from pet doll to business empire
In the early twentieth century, a new doll appeared in Germany that revolutionised the world of toys. Its creator, Kaethe Kruse, was a talented actress, but after the birth of her daughter Maria, she decided to leave the stage and devote herself to her family.
One day, three-year-old Maria asked her father, the famous sculptor Max Kruse, for a doll that looked like her newborn sister Sophia. Max Kruse refused to buy a doll, stating that he found them all hideous. Kaethe Kruse then decided to make the doll herself.
She took a towel, stuffed it with sand and tied knots to mark the arms and legs. She made the head from a potato and drew the eyes, nose and mouth with a burnt match. This first Kaethe Kruse doll was far from perfect, but it made a lasting impression on Maria.
Over time, Kaethe Kruse decided to improve her creation. She began to use better quality materials and more elaborate details. Her dolls acquired a realistic look and became very popular.
In 1912 Kaethe Kruse opened her first doll-making workshop. Soon her business became so successful that she was able to move to Berlin and open a factory there.
The dolls quickly gained popularity all over the world. They were bought not only by children, but also by adult collectors. Kaethe Kruse dolls became a symbol of German quality and craftsmanship.
During the First World War, the Kaethe Kruse factory was closed, but after the end of the war it reopened and continued to produce dolls. In the 1930s, the company experienced another crisis due to the economic depression. However, thanks to the talent and perseverance of the founder, the company was able to overcome the difficulties and get back on its feet.
During the Second World War, the Kaethe Kruse factory was destroyed. After the war, the company was rebuilt, but it had to face a new challenge - competition from Japanese doll manufacturers.
Despite all the difficulties, Kaethe Kruse was able to survive and continue producing dolls. Today, the dolls are still very popular. They are appreciated for their high quality, exquisite design and realistic appearance.
Kaethe Kruse dolls have become a classic of world toy production and to this day remain one of the most sought-after and favourite toys of children all over the world.
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