Early French Paper Mache Black-Complexioned Poupee in Original Garb

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18" (46 cm.) Ebony-black-complexioned paper mache shoulderhead with oval-shaped face and elongated throat, painted facial features, small black eyes with pronounced whites, black tinted brows, closed mouth, wig of fine silk yarn arranged in upswept manner and accented with an assortment of coral and gilt jewelry, tinted black kid poupee body with shapely torso, jointing at shoulders. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: French, circa 1850. Value Points: very rare early paper mache poupee with exotic coloring, original painting, original wig, and wearing lavish draped beading of various designs and with leather clogs. The rarity of the item and its unique presentation suggests origin as mid-19th century Exhibition doll.