Artist/Maker Doll (German, 1898 - 1949)

Ferris wheel

1910–1920

Metal, paint

Overall: 20 × 15 × 14 1/8 in. (50.8 × 38.1 × 35.9 cm)

Jerni Collection, acquired with generous support from Bloomberg Philanthropies, Richard Gilder, and an anonymous donor

2014.31.852a-m

The Ferris wheel debuted at the World’s Columbian Exposition held in Chicago in 1893. By 1900, wheels were entertaining paying riders in both London and Paris and inspiring the creation of innumerable steam driven and wind-up toys. Among the most elaborate were those produced by Doll et Cie. This Ferris wheel is the second largest the firm produced in this style and was exported internationally in the years prior to World War I. When attached to a model steam engine, a wire belt drove the wheel around. The toy could be operated by hand as well.

DescriptionFerris wheel. Blue and white girders on red marbled base. Four detachable flags (b-e). Six attached gondolas. Seven assorted seated figures (f-l). Detachable ladder (m). Crank mechanism.

MarkingsUnmarked

ClassificationsTOYS

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