Early 18th-Century Wooden Carved Doll

Live Auction

23" (58 cm.) One-piece carved head and shapely torso,oval- faced shape carved in forward nodding pose and with downcast-carving of pronounced eyelids over enamel eyes,closed mouth,blonde hemp wig,carved wooden arms with large hands,dowel-jointing at shoulders and elbows,unusual shorter legs designed to allow the doll to appear as though sitting (with attached wooden stand) or standing with gown flowing below the body. Condition: some overpaint,especially nose,hands and front shoulder plate,dowel-jointed limbs (under the costume) may be later replacements. Comments: late 18th century,European. Value Points: exquisite carving and expression of face,wearing original costume of linen-back homespun with metallic bodice.