Rare German Bisque Closed Mouth Doll by Ernst Grossman in Petite Size

Live Auction

10" (25 cm.) Bisque socket head with very pale complexion, brown glass sleep eyes, painted lashes, brushstroked and feathered brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth with outlined lips, pierced ears, auburn mohair wig, early composition and wooden eight-loose-ball-jointed body with straight wrists. Condition: generally excellent. Marks: 116 (?) 2 (head) E.G. (circle stamp on torso). Comments: Ernst Grossman, circa 1880, who was the first German dollmaker to introduce the ball-jointed body; the doll was introduced to compete against the French bebe and in its facial modeling, as well as body style, it closely resembles the early Jumeau bebe. Value Points: rare doll with maker's signature, in most endearing petite size, with beautiful expression and bisque, and with original costume.