#42

Bisque Character with Shy Mischievous Smile, Model 1304, Simon and Halbig for the French Market
Live Auction

$1,600
sold
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Description
12" (30 cm.) Bisque socket head with untinted complexion to depict clown or jester, brown glass inset eyes, painted lower lashes, arched brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth with impish grin, red and gold fleecy mohair wig, French composition body with jointing at shoulders and hips. Condition: imperceptive faint hairline at side of head from crown rim to ear (likely original). Marks: 4 1304 S&H. Comments: Simon and Halbig, circa 1890, the rare character model was designed specifically for portrayal as a theatre performer doll for the French market; its various uses were as a doll, as a head for a Pierrot automaton by Lambert, and as the head for a hollow-bodied candy container for luxury Parisian candy store. Value Points: rare model with wonderful detail of sculpting and expression, original body, wig, and costume.