Superb Early Continental Wooden Doll in Grand Size with Original Wig

Live Auction

25" (64 cm.) One piece carved wooden head and torso with oval shaped face,strong throat,defined waist and rounded derriere,bald pate with striated details of lightly painted hair,sculpted wooden ears,sculpted eye socket with inset enamel eyes,sculpted nostrils,slightly parted lips with defined tongue,dowel-jointing of shoulders,elbows,hips and knees with plump lower arms and separately sculpted fingers in expressive pose,painted red stockings and black shoes. Condition: very good,some typical paint lines in paint,one enamel eye chipped,finish restored on lower legs and feet. Marks: M.F. (penciled on bottom of left foot). Comments: Continental,probably southern France or Italian,late 18th century. Value Points: compelling portrait expression of face with well-preserved original carving and painted finish,included is original hand-sewn wig,and certain original costume elements including bodice with bone stiffening,silk stockings,and silk brocade shoes with thick cobbled leather soles.