15" (38 cm). Ebony-black complexioned bisque socket head with highly characterized features, amber glass inset eyes with spiral threading, rounded nose with coral accents, closed mouth with coral-shaded full lips, pierced ears, black fleecy mohair wig over cork pate, French black composition and wooden fully jointed body with original pewter hands. Condition: generally excellent. Marks: 4 B.M. (incised),(partial boutique label of Bordeaux doll store on left foot). Comments: Alexandre Tiburce Mothereau, circa 1886,the doll portrays Queen Ranavalona III who reigned over Madagascar from 1883-1896,achieving an almost mythic significance to her country that was ruled over by France, and an apt figure to be rendered into doll form. Historical photographs of Queen Ranavalona III are identical to this doll. Value Points: the rarity of the portrait bebe is rivaled by its beauty, her expressive features unique to this model only, wearing original silk dress, straw bonnet, chemise, leather shoes signed "L.P." and Au Nain Bleu paper label.