January 2011, Issue 12
Dollhouse Tourism, Hungary
Page 27
There are museums specializing in toys, dolls and dollhouses. The most well-known toy museum is the Szórakaténusz at Kecskemét, about 100 kms from Budapest. They have a wide collection, from ancient children's toys to expensive dolls and dollhouses from the beginning of the 20th century.
The ancient toys were usually crafted of animal bones and wood, but were surprisingly sophisticated compared to the currently available "usual" children's toys. The collector's toys represent the high-end: bisque porcelain dolls, 1:3 scale furniture made of cherry or nut-wood and fine china.
Certainly there are smaller private collections in the country, but the biggest one, the Moskovszky Collection, is located at
Szekesfehervar (90 kms from Budapest). This collection contains 70 dollhouses, roomboxes, furniture, wax and bisque porcelain dolls in different scales, a large number of miniature china, glass vases, cakestands, etc., tiny lead animals, war ships, paper theatres and even a castle under siege.
The oldest piece there dates back to the 18th century, it is a room from the Northern border of the country, with unique cupboard, chairs and table. The collection was brought together by two ladies, mother and daughter, Mrs. and Ms. Moskovszky. Ms. Moskovszky passed away in January at age 84.
I hope - by now - you see that our country is a colorful tiny jewel in the heart of Europe. And you should know that the heart of the earth is located in Hungary too. It is only some miles from the capital, and called Dobogók - which translates to beating stone. This hilly piece of forested country is credited with remarkable healing power and energy by visitors, a reflection of the earth's heart beating.
Next stop, Norway.
Custom Dolls, Houses & Miniatures / CDHM