ck****an
Highest Bidder
$50,000
Sold
sold
- Estimate
- $18,000 / $22,000
Description
18" (46 cm.) Bisque swivel head on kid-edged bisque shoulderplate with delicately modeled bosom, perfectly oval face with distinctive chin, deposed Dehors neck attachment allowing the head to tilt forward and lean coquettishly from side to side (rather than simply swivel), slightly elongated throat, almond shaped cobalt blue glass enamel inset eyes, dark eyeliner encircles the eye sockets, lightly feathered brows and lashes, aquiline nose, accented nostrils and eye corners, closed mouth with upturned lip corners and accented lips lending suggestion of enigmatic smile, shaped chin with centered dimple, pierced ears, blonde mohair wig over cork pate, stretched kid over wooden poupee body with shapely torso, dowel-jointing at shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees, bisque arms with separately sculpted fingers, defined knuckles and nails, separate thumb. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Alexandre Dehors, circa 1866. The deposed Dehors head articulation allowed the doll "to nod its head, tilt it from side to side, or raise or lower it modestly or triumphantly", according to a reviewer of the 1867 Exposition Universelle in Paris where the Dehors doll was exhibited. The facial resemblance to the beloved Empress Eugenie is remarkable, indicating that the model may have been created specifically for that Exposition, which was the crowning showpiece of the Napoleon III epoch. Value Points: the exquisite portrait lady with finest bisque and painting, rare body style, and realistic head articulation is superbly costumed in brown and ivory silk gown, brown velvet bonnet, leather heels, undergarments, and is preserved in early box along with various accessories and additional costumes.
Stuart's Take
The Poupee Fashions of Alexandre Dehors are, in my opinion, a defining moment of artistry and fashion combining for some of the most striking figurative works of art ever created. This example, once in the personal collection of Maree Tarnowska - and featured in her book, later was obtained and displayed for years at the Rosalie Whyel Museum and stands as one of the finest ever presented. Add to this an additional original costume and accessories along with the photo of the young owner with the doll in the 19th century, and you have a package of stories, beauty, and presentation that is the dream of every collector.