Rare Italian Portrait Doll of "Josephine Baker" in Banana Costume, Model 554, by Lenci

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18" (46 cm.) Firmly-stuffed light-brown felt doll, chubby swivel head with plump cheeks, wide googly side-glancing painted eyes, painted black all-around curly lashes, black brows, rounded nose with accented nostrils, closed mouth with felt applique lips, black hair in highly-stylized cut including spit curl on forehead, intricate dart-shaped torso and limbs, modeled bent elbows, jointing at shoulder and hips, separated fingers. Condition: generally excellent, some shaded darker spots on arms. Comments: Lenci, circa 1927, model 554, the doll portrays the American-born Parisian dancer Josephine Baker in her most famous costume, "Danse Banane", from her 1925 performance at the Folies Bergere. Value Points: extremely rare Lenci model paying homage to the famed performer, the doll is also notable for its unique construction details, the intricate darts, padding, and insets enhancing her seductive pose, wearing original felt banana costume with leaves and vine, and elaborate original brass bangle jewelry.