French Paper Mache Bebe by Schmitt et Fils with Original Signed Body

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16" (41 cm.) Solid domed paper mache head with rounded facial modeling, flat-cut neck socket attached to torso by dowel protruding from torso neck, blue glass enamel eyes with spiral threading, lightly painted lashes and brows, pale lips, blonde mohair wig, flat-cut derriere of torso, eight-loose-ball-jointed arms and legs. Condition: very good, original complexion and facial painting albeit a bit faded and rubbed. Marks: Sch (shield mark,on derriere). Comments: Schmitt et Fils, circa 1875, the earliest model of the firm's bebe series, made prior to pressed bisque models. Value Points: very rare and historically important example in Schmitt et Fils lineage, wearing original silk costume.