The history of sex dolls is somewhat obscure and involves a mix of myth, speculation, and documented history. While it’s difficult to pinpoint a single individual as the “inventor” of sex dolls, the concept has evolved over time, with different cultures and innovations contributing to what we recognize today as sex dolls.
Early Origins
- Sailors’ “Dames de Voyage”: One of the earliest known references to something resembling a sex doll comes from the 17th century. European sailors, particularly the Dutch, who were on long sea voyages, were said to have created “dames de voyage” or “traveling ladies.” These were crude, makeshift dolls made from stitched cloth or leather, designed to serve as sexual substitutes during extended periods away from home.
- Japanese “Dutch Wives”: Around the same period, Japanese sailors created similar objects called “Dutch wives” (a reference to the Dutch sailors). These were also rudimentary dolls, usually made from fabric, to relieve sexual tension during long voyages.
20th Century Development
- 1930s Germany: During the 1930s, there were rumors that Nazi Germany had developed sex dolls as part of a secret military project called the “Borghild Project.” The idea was reportedly to prevent soldiers from seeking out prostitutes in occupied territories, thus reducing the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. However, this story is largely considered to be a myth, as no concrete evidence supports the existence of this project.
- 1968: The First Commercial Inflatable Doll: The sex doll as we know it began to take shape in the mid-20th century. In 1968, the first inflatable sex dolls were commercially produced and sold. These early versions were made from plastic and were very basic in design, often featuring crude facial features and limited functionality. They were designed to be a low-cost, mass-produced alternative for sexual gratification.
Modern Innovations
- 1970s to 1980s: The 1970s and 1980s saw the introduction of more realistic and durable materials. Silicone and latex became popular, allowing for more lifelike appearances and textures. During this time, the sex doll industry began to develop more sophisticated models, including dolls with articulated joints and interchangeable parts.
- 21st Century: RealDoll and the Rise of Hyper-Realism: In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Matt McMullen, an American artist and entrepreneur, founded Abyss Creations and introduced the “RealDoll.” RealDolls were revolutionary because they used high-quality silicone to create extremely lifelike dolls with realistic skin, facial features, and anatomically correct body parts. This innovation set a new standard for realism in the industry and inspired a wave of similar products.
- Artificial Intelligence and Robotics: In recent years, the integration of AI and robotics has taken sex dolls to a new level. Companies like RealDoll have developed models that can respond to voice commands, hold conversations, and even simulate emotions, making the dolls more interactive than ever before.
Conclusion
While no single person can be credited with inventing the sex doll, the concept has evolved over centuries, influenced by various cultural practices and technological advancements. The modern sex doll is the result of contributions from many individuals and innovations, with pioneers like Matt McMullen playing a significant role in shaping the industry as we know it today.