The clown doll has been a favorite companion of children through the ages. There are almost as many variations on the clown doll as there are on the kids who adore them. There are also a number of designs that are geared towards serious doll collectors, as well as those who are interested in creating circus-themed decor. Perhaps the most popular are traditional clown dolls that reflect the typical reveler you would find at a Ringling Brothers event. Many of the dolls are flexible, allowing for maximum durability when in the hands of a youngster, and others are bendable so as to fit in a miniature clown car. If you are interested in clown dolls for children, be sure you check the ages for which each doll is appropriate. For collectors, there are classic and truly unique clown dolls on the market. You can locate hand-crafted pieces that are painstakingly carved from fine woods, porcelain, or even glass. You can also go beyond the "standard" clown and find dolls that represent the French Harlequins of old or even the Italian Arlechinno, from which the French clowns evolved. It is possible to find sets of clown dolls from a single designer or pieces that, when used together, create an elaborate circus scene. As there are so many variations on clown dolls, you will find pieces in almost every price range. There are even bejeweled clown dolls that feature precious stones and ornate costuming. If you are in search of vintage pieces, your best bet might be to work directly with a fellow collector and establish a working relationship through which you can share sources and information. | 
