German Paper Mache Whistling Doll with Sculpted Hat

Live Auction

9" (23 cm.) Paper mache head of young boy with sculpted brown cap over short curly hair, painted facial features, blue eyes, lips pursed with center hole to allow "whistling" sound when bellows in torso is squeezed, wooden lower arms and legs. Condition: generally excellent, original painting albeit a bit faded, original costume with spotting. Comments: Germany, circa 1900, the "whistling" bellows dolls were offered by several firms in paper mache at this time. Value Points: amusing and well-functioning whistling doll. The actual doll is discussed and photographed in German Doll Studies, page 101. Private Collection of Marianne Cieslik.