Three Dolls c. 1938

Eugene Croe's "Three Dolls" is a study in watercolor offering a glimpse into the world of 19th-century aesthetics and social values. Croe, who lived through the Belle Époque, presents us with five studies of doll faces. These dolls, adorned with pearls and ribbons, reflect the era's emphasis on elaborate ornamentation and the societal expectations placed on young girls. The delicate rendering and attention to detail also speak to the period's fascination with idealized beauty. Yet, beyond their surface appeal, these dolls evoke questions about identity and representation. Were these dolls mere playthings, or did they serve as tools for shaping young girls' understanding of femininity? The dolls' static expressions and idealized features hint at the limitations imposed on women during this time. The artwork invites us to consider the complex interplay between play, identity, and societal norms. What do these dolls tell us about the construction of girlhood and the expectations placed on women in the 19th century?