$24,000
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sold
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Description
15" (38 cm). Bisque socket head with ebony
black complexion and 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, original pewter
hands. Condition: generally excellent. Marks:
4. B. M. (incised on head) (partial boutique
label of Bordeaux doll store on left foot).
Comments: Alexandre Tiburce Mothereau,
circa 1886, the doll aptly portrays Queen
Ranavalona III, who achieved the throne of
Madagascar in 1883 at the age of 18. The
young queen resisted the efforts of Britain and
France who sought to overtake her empire, but
finally ceded to France. Her heroic efforts were
applauded in France and America wherein
she became an important spokeswoman for
her country, and an apt figure to be rendered
into doll form. In 1896 she lost her throne,
dying in exile in 1917. Historic photographs of
Ranavalona are identical to this doll. Value
Points: extremely rare and beautiful black
bisque doll of historical significance. Her
expressive features are unique to this model
only, original body, original muslin chemise,
original (faded) maroon and ivory silk
costume, black leather shoes signed L.B.