The Tiny Contract
Dolls' House Contract (1837)
This contract has been signed by 12 year old Margaret Alsager and her father Thomas. It is a small copy of 19th century rental agreements and uses many legal terms.
It sets out rules for Margaret's dolls' house. As well as paying monthly rent of one shilling, Margaret agrees not to light any candels or fires in the house. She is allowed flames made of red foil, wool or glass.
Thomas was a well-known figure in London society. At their large house in Queen Square, Bloomsbury, the Alsagers hosted literary and musical entertainments for poets and musicians.
[V&A Museum of Childhood]
The Tiny Contract
Dolls' House Contract (1837)
This contract has been signed by 12 year old Margaret Alsager and her father Thomas. It is a small copy of 19th century rental agreements and uses many legal terms.
It sets out rules for Margaret's dolls' house. As well as paying monthly rent of one shilling, Margaret agrees not to light any candels or fires in the house. She is allowed flames made of red foil, wool or glass.
Thomas was a well-known figure in London society. At their large house in Queen Square, Bloomsbury, the Alsagers hosted literary and musical entertainments for poets and musicians.
[V&A Museum of Childhood]