Enchanted Doll

by Marina Bychkova

More than mere playthings, Enchanted Dolls are elegantly sculpted and articulated works of art. Strikingly nude, engraved or adorned in opulent sculptural costumes of precious metals, gemstones, and rare found objects, each doll intricately conveys an aspect of our humanity. Unique and delicate, their forms evoke a strong emotional response, haunting us with their vulnerability. All at once innocent and sexual, Enchanted Dolls depict highly stylized images of femininity, while at the same time reflecting on life's playful naivete.

Genres: Nonfiction

192 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2011

Reviews

[Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This doll artist is incredible and so is this book. Marina Bychkova doesn't just make one of a kind dolls. They are pieces of art. She hand makes everything you see on the doll, top to toe. She hand sculpts the entire body head and body structure. Making no two dolls the same in anyway. Marina is a trained jewelry maker, so every piece of head gear, ornate crowns, shoes, bodices on the dolls are hand made by her. She even incorporates precious metals, gems, and stones making these dolls practically priceless. The doll on the cover which is one of two Cinderella creations she has made was auctioned on eBay for over $70,000. Clearly. these dolls are not just pretty recreations, but artistic pieces.

You do not have to particularly interested in dolls, but if you like fine art and the process that goes into making these sort of art pieces, I recommend just giving it a peak to get an idea of her craftsmanship.

Since I will never be able to own one of these dolls, I settled graciously for the book instead, which is a treasure in itself.

This book is rather hard to get because there was such a limited print on it. But Alibris, Amazon, Barnes and Noble market place are great places to check if interested. It unfortunately most likely will not be a book you would be able to locate in a library.

[Freop · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely staggering and soulful, some of them exotic in a wonderful way

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marina Bychkova Makes the most beautiful dolls on the planet. I have never been much of a doll person because, honestly, they creep me out. Pierrot clowns being the only exception, but even then, I am extremely picky. She takes doll making to whole new levels. Each beautiful doll has a story behind her, such attention to detail that they look so lifelike, and it looks as if they may actually come alive.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two page spreads of exquisite photography and Ms. Bychkova's First person narratives of her hallmark dolls are a delight. If I can't get one of her dolls, at least I have her book.

[Lucy Elsom · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredibly interesting book, delving into the art and deep undertones of each doll, which has been lovingly created.

She is and inspirational artist, whom I'd love to be even half as good as.