Extremely Rare and Fine French Bisque Black-Complexioned Poupee by Leon Casimir Bru

13 Watching

Live Auction

15" (38 cm.) Ebony black-complexioned bisque head on kid-edged bisque shoulderplate, uniquely modeled features for this model, strong upturned nose, black glass enamel eyes, black tinted brows, very slightly-parted lips with two rows of tiny teeth, pierced ears, tinted black kid body with gusset-jointing at hips, knees and elbows. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: French, circa 1875, the poupee is modeled and complexioned to represent a person from Senegal, and was likely presented as a specially commissioned or exhibition model; this actual doll is discussed in The Bru Book by Francois Theimer, pp. 171-175, with images of each stage of the multi-layered costume, along with the note "it exhibits know-how, quality and perfection in the creation of a doll. The term masterpiece does not seem misplaced here". Value Points: extraordinary in its rarity, fine state of preservation, and flawless beauty, the poupee is wearing multi-layered costume of the Senegal region including headdress, unique shoes, and jewelry. The doll is featured in the book, The Rose Unfolds, by Rosalie Whyel and Susan Hedrick, pages 86/87.