19th-Century Miniature Woven Hotte with Toys

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4"h hotte (10 cm). A flat-backed high woven basket with rounded front contains an assortment of tiny dolls and toys including all-bisque man with green sculpted hat, Frozen Charlotte style doll with sculpted chemise, wooden doll, bone opera glasses, chick, lambs, wooden building, holiday tree. The hotte basket was a traditional means of transporting goods such as dolls and toys in 19th century France and Germany, and toward the end of the century was offered as a holiday surprise in Paris department stores. Miniature versions are extremely rare. Excellent condition.