Pair, German Porcelain Dolls in Original Chimney Sweeper Costumes as Pen Wiper

Live Auction

5 1/2" (14 cm.) including broom. Each is an all-porcelain figure of standing baby with sculpted black hair, painted facial features, arms held in front of body. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Germany, circa 1890, before the days of central heating, the chimney sweeper performed one of the more necessary jobs in both small towns and large cities. Their costumes were functional (thus, black to hide the soot), and eventually evolving into a traditional uniform. Value Points: each doll is wearing its original black tightly-woven suit and cap. Carries accessories including ladders and broom, and is mounted upon a padded woolen base, designed for use as pen wiper.