Italian Felt Doll with Glass Googly Eyes by Lenci Known as "The Merry Widow"

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20" (51 cm.) Felt swivel head with pressed facial features, large wide-open brown glass "flirty" eyes, long painted upper lashes, high brows, "O"-shaped closed mouth, blonde mohair wig with long ringlet curls, felt body with jointing at shoulders and hips, wearing original black taffeta gown in the 1875 style with original undergarments, socks, shoes, and black felt bonnet with lace veil and colorful felt flowers, while holding her white mohair Scottie dog. Condition: generally excellent. Marks: Lenci (original cloth and paper labels). Comments: Italian, Lenci, circa 1935. The doll was inspired by the legendary story of the wealthy widow Sonia told in the 1934 MGM musical film "The Merry Widow" starring Jeannette MacDonald; the costume is nearly identical to that worn by the Widow. Value Points: sought-after Lenci model with well-functioning flirty eyes.