SATURDAY, JANUARY 10, 2026
“Remembrances - The Renowned Fran and
Charles Ciraolo Collection”
A Cataloged Marquis Auction of Antique Dolls
More than a half century ago, Fran Ciraolo began her doll collection. It is a story to which many collectors will relate. Seeking a Christmas gift for his wife Fran, something that would be just a bit different than perfume or a pretty sweater, Charles Ciraolo passed by an antique shop and there sitting in the window was a pretty antique doll. It seemed like a good idea, something different at least, but he wasn’t too sure until Christmas morning arrived. It was a grand success! And as he somewhat ruefully now admits “So the collection began”. And such a collection it is. Theriault’s Saturday, January 10, 2026 Marquis auction, titled “Remembrances”, will feature part one of the one-owner collection of Fran and Charles Ciraolo of California.
The auction is rightfully titled “Remembrances” as collectors will surely remember many of the dolls from previous landmark auctions which Fran and Charles had attended, and which are certain to kindle dreams once again of “the ones that got away”. Highlighting the collection are extraordinary French bébés from every illustrious French dollmaker including Leon Casimir Bru, Andre Thuillier, Aristide Halopeau, Jules Steiner, Schmitt et Fils, Gaultier, Mothereau, Petit et Demoutier, Emile Jumeau and more, along with the very rare and historically important art character doll of Albert Marque. The beautiful Jumeau Triste model is delightfully appearing in every size, from the smallest size 9 to the very rare size 16. Too, the art character dolls of German firms have had special meaning to the couple with important examples from every notable firm. Although the 300-lot auction focuses on French bébés and German art characters,
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A beautiful full-color book honoring the collection is available for $69 (including postage and after sale prices realized). Collectors are invited to attend the auction in person (call for reservations), and bidding is also available by absentee bid, live telephone bid and live internet bidding.
there are, too, other delights from French automata to Italian studio dolls including Lenci and Burgarella, and American celebrity compositions.
A Legend Collection Catalog, “Remembrances” is available with exquisite color photos and detailed descriptions and provenance of the dolls, or the dolls can be viewed online at theriaults.com. The auction is conducted in live video feed on January 10 (beginning at 11 AM ET). Collectors are encouraged to attend the auction in person, and bidding is also available by written absentee bids, live telephone bidding at the time of the auction, and live online bidding. x
The auction event will take place at Theriault’s Gallery in Annapolis, Maryland. For more information call 410-224-3655 or email info@theriaults.com.
schedule of events saturday
JANUARY 10, 2026
9 AM Eastern. Preview.
11 AM Eastern. Auction of “Remembrances” Begins.
Absentee, Telephone and Live Internet Bidding
We welcome absentee bidding, live telephone bidding, and live bidding on the internet. Too, you can “tune-in” to the online auction and watch and listen to the entire event. Questions? Give us a call and we’ll help you choose the bidding option that is best for you.
Auction Information
The auction will take place at the Theriault’s Gallery in Annapolis, MD. For info call 410-224-3655 M-F 9AM-5PM ET or go online to theriaults.com. Email queries to info@theriaults.com anytime. You are welcome to attend. Please call ahead for seat reservations.
