Rare American Black-Complexioned Doll by Joel Ellis

Live Auction

13" (33 cm.) All-wooden doll with sculpted short curly hair that is painted black over gesso undercoat, painted brown complexion with brown painted eyes, closed mouth, smoothly finished wooden body with natural finish, dowel jointing at shoulders, elbows, hips and knees, painted brown lower arms and pewter hands, painted black pewter ankle boots, original costume. Condition: structurally excellent except some wear to gesso curls at back of head, painted finish is original albeit rubbed and worn. Comments: American Joel Ellis, circa 1875. Value Points: rare black-complexioned model by the American firm, with antique undergarments, and posed in wooden rush seat chair.