German Mechanical Black Man as Peddler in Original Costume

Live Auction

24" (61 cm.) Standing upon a wooden base is a paper mache head man with ebony black complexion, his head attached in loose nodding manner, with black glass eyes, painted features, open hinged mouth with two rows of teeth, wide smiling expression, paper mache body, wire upper arms, paper mache hands with pointing finger on right hand. When wound, he nods his head and hinges open and close his mouth as though hawking his wares which are presumably held in the suitcases at his feet. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Germany, circa 1890, designed as a store promotional item to draw the public's focus to whatever product was being shown in the store window. Value Points: fine all-original condition including wonderful costume including fancy shoes and plaid slacks with matching jacket lining.