Lenci Art

THERIAULT’S

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To order additional copies contact: Florence & George

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This book is based upon an antique doll collection auctioned by Theriault’s of Annapolis, Maryland.

Design: Travis Hammond

Photography: Gerald Nelson

Senior Conservator: Terry Lanford

Conservators: Hana Holbrook, Marie Kocourkova

$69

ISBN 978-1-944881-40-5

Printed in Hong Kong, China

Introduction

Elaine Romberg’s intrigue with fabric and textiles has guided her into and within the universe of antique dolls from her beginning forays with Raggedy Ann and handmade cloth to her fascination with the rich embroideries and patterned silks of both Japanese and Neapolitan dolls of the 18th and 19th centuries. Along the way she discovered the early cloth dolls of Kathe Kruse and then found the dolls of Elena di Scavini known as Lenci which is where she has focused her attention for the past twenty years. Focus is not an idle word to this woman, a scholar at heart, a statistician by profession, Professor Emeritus of the University of Maryland Dental School, and an enthusiastic researcher about the objects she loves. To the benefit of other collectors, her dedicated search for rare and early examples of the Lenci firm have led to this remarkable collection that Theriault’s is honored to present. x

The 20” early Lenci portrait of a Native American (left) was likely inspired by American silent films of the Wild West. A decade later, the Lenci firm continued this theme with a wonderful boy and girl from their 300 series in elaborate Native American costumes, which are also featured in the Romberg Collection.

In the Lenci firm’s early 1920 advertisement, the 18” doll (right) was described only as “Cow Boy”, and was surely intended as a companion to the Native American shown in the same ad. Shortly thereafter Lenci issued another cowboy doll which she named “Tom Mix”.

First year Lenci Dolls as shown in the 1920 Printemps catalog.

1. Very Rare Portrait of Native American Chief from Early Premiere Series

20” (51 cm.) Rich amber brown felt swivel head with strongly featured nose and chin, stitched ears, painted blue side-glancing eyes, black painted brows and war paint details, black silk floss braids, firmlystuffed amber brown felt torso and limbs, painted sunburst on his front torso, jointing at shoulders and hips, four stitched-together fingers, separate thumb. Wearing blue felt costume with embroidered and braided accents, fringed detail on pants and sleeves, belt with two separately attached felt holster and purse trimmed with beading, felt moccasins, wrapped headdress with bountiful felt “feathers” that cascade to his heels at the back. Condition: overall excellent with some light fading of costume at the front, headdress feathers are restored by R. John Wright. Comments: Lenci, circa 1920, the model was featured in the Paris department store catalog of Au Printemps in that year, described as “No 1 Chef Indien” at a price of 189 fr. Fifteen Lenci dolls were shown in that catalog, believed to be the premiere advertisement of her dolls. This model was #1 of her dolls, and was the most expensive in the ad. Value Points: extremely rare doll whose artistic details include facial and chest painting. Few examples are known to exist. Ex-Collection R. John Wright. $2200/2800

Illustration appearing in 1920 Printemps catalog

The 1800s European fascination with the American Wild West, continued into the early 1900s, invigorated by the silent film industry. It is certain that Lenci was intrigued by this phenomenon also, as a few years later she actually presented a cowboy named Tom Mix in honor of the Hollywood silent film star.

2. All Original Portrait of Cowboy Shown in Earliest 1920 Advertisement

18” (46 cm.) Felt swivel head with firmly-pressed mask facial features, very strong nose and jaw, painted blue side-glancing eyes, thick brows and moustache, separately stitched ears, brown hair weft-sewn to head, firmly-stuffed felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips, four sewn-together fingers, separate thumb. Wearing red felt shirt with button cuffs, grey felt vest with stud trim, blue front fringed neck scarf, brown felt hat with upturned brim, brown felt fringed trousers with white fur chaps, mid-calf laced leather boots, leather belt and holster with pistol, rope lasso. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Lenci, circa 1920, the model appeared in Lenci’s 1920 premiere ad for the Paris department store of Au Printemps, listed as “#6 Cow Boy”, selling at 110 fr. The model may have been inspired by Tom Mix who starred in American Westerns from 1909 onward, and was known to be admired by Madame Lenci. $3500/4500

Illustration appearing in 1920

Printemps catalog

3. Rare Boudoir Doll with Half-Closed Eyes, Model 161, with Metal Button

25” (64 cm.) Felt swivel head with mask pressed face, up-tilted chin and nose, angular features, painted brown side-glancing eyes with half-closed lids and pronounced brown eye shadow and liner, painted brown spit curls onto sides of cheeks, closed mouth with painted teeth, shaded lower lips, elongated slender body with modeled bent elbows, four sewntogether fingers, separate thumb, disc-jointing at shoulders and hips, seam jointing of knees allowing seated pose. Wearing cream/white felt costume with black felt edging on skirt ruffles and collar, black felt throat ruffle and cuffs, red felt rose at bodice, wide-brimmed hat with

black pom-pom, knee length pants, black leggings and black heeled shoes with white pom-poms. Condition: very good, light dusting of face, few moth holes, tip of left heel broken. Marks: Lenci di. E. Scavini Made in Italy N. 161 (rectangular paper label with attached metal button). Comments: Lenci, 1924, one of the earliest models of boudoir dolls. Value Points: the rare doll has exquisitely-painted face with half-closed eyes, and is wearing wonderful costume in the Pierrette manner. $2200/2800

4. Pierrot with Mandolin from Commedia dell’Arte Series, Model

115A

21” (53 cm.) Felt swivel head with pressed mask face, painted narrow brown side-glancing eyes with heavy eyelids, grey eye shadow, brown painted lashes, accented nostrils, closed mouth with accented lower lip, felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders, hips and knees. Wearing black felt Pierrot costume with black and white ruffled collars, white felt buttons, and black stitchedon skull cap with wire-framed felt flower on long felt stem.

Condition: very good, some light dustiness. Comments: Lenci, circa 1924, model 115A, Pierrot, modeled by Maurice Dudovich, was made in three variations of costume colors. Pierrot was a popular figure depicting a naive and sad clown in the Commedia dell’Arte theatrical series that was enjoying a resurgence in both Italy and Paris in the 1920s. Value Points: wearing original black felt Pierrot costume with white buttons, and carrying wooden mandolin with green felt ties. $1200/1500

3. Detail

3.

5. Rare Female Variation of Pierrot with Variation Face Model and Guitar, Model 576, 1929

27” (69 cm.) Felt swivel head with heartshaped face, modeled downcast brown eyes with pronounced eyelids, brown eyeliner, arched brows, tiny nostril accents and closed mouth, felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips, seam-jointing at knees allowing seated pose. Wearing cream white felt costume with black felt buttons, white ruffled collar, white felt idebrimme hat with black button over black skull cap, with felt flowers in right hand and carrying painted wooden guitar. Condition: good, some dustiness, few moth holes, missing shoes.

Comments: Lenci, circa 1929, model 576. Value

Points: the rare female version of Pierrot is distinguished by unique face which is wonderfully preserved, and having wooden guitar rather than mandolin. The exact doll is shown in Lenci, the History and the Dolls by Nancy Lazenby, page 66. $1200/2200

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5.

6.

6. Extremely Rare Portrait Doll of “Josephine Baker” in her Classic Banana Costume, Model 554

18” (46 cm.) Firmly-stuffed light-brown felt doll, chubby swivel head with plump cheeks, wide googly sideglancing 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. intricatedart-shaped torso and limbs, modeled bent elbows, jointing at shoulder and hips, separated fingers. Condition: generally excellent, little mend at one pierced ear hole. 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 known as the Bronze Venus, or, simply “La Baker”, the doll is also

Color illustration in 1926 Lenci catalog

notable for its unique construction details, the intricate darts, padding, and insets enhancing her seductive pose, wearing a felt banana costume with leaves and vine, and elaborate original brass bangle jewelry. $5000/7000

Elena di Scavini mingled in the intellectual and art circles of 1920s Europe, with celebrated friends from throughout the continent. Some served as generic inspiration for her dolls, and others, some of whom became dear friends such as Josephine Baker, were made into splendid dolls which actually bore their names.

7. Rare Early Portrait Doll of Famed Bullfighters “Bombita”, Model 267

18” (46 cm.) Felt swivel head with very plump face, pressed and painted facial features, round brown side-glancing eyes with brown curly upper lashes, rounded nose, closed mouth, unusual black fleecy hair with shaped sideburns, firmly-stuffed felt plump torso and jointed arms and legs, separately sewn fingers. Costumed as a matador in bright red felt costume with metallic thread embroidery, red cape with velvet accent, white shirt, black tie, stockings, black leatherette shoes with red edging and heels, and a black cap that is elaboratelyconstructed with ruffled felt pom-poms. Condition: generally excellent, very slight costume fading.

Comments: Lenci, the doll appeared in the 1925 Lenci catalog identified as #267 “Bombita”.

“Bombita” was the name given to the celebrated Spanish

matadors Emilio and Ricardo Torres whose height of popularity was at the time of the doll’s production. It is one of the very few named celebrity dolls by Lenci. Value Points: rare model with delightful expression, wonderful costume with intricate construction and detail. Ex-Billie Nelson Tyrell Collection. $1500/1800

Photograph in 1925 Lenci catalog

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8. Rare Italian Felt Lady by Lenci in Unusual Petite Size, 1925 Catalog

Cover Doll, Model 204

13” (33 cm.) Firmly-stuffed one piece head and torso with oval shaped face and elongated throat, painted blue side-glancing eyes in large round shape, painted lashes and one-stroke brows, tiny nose and closed mouth with bottom lip accents, blonde mohair wig in tight ringlet curls, jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing orange felt dress in the late 1700s style with scalloped edge hem, ruffled organdy apron, collar, cuffs, pantalets and petticoat, black felt shoes, yellow wide-brimmed felt bonnet with golden felt band and applique felt flowers, and carrying felt flowers in her right hand. Condition: generally excellent. Marks: Lenci Turin Italy Di E. Scavini Made in Italy 204... (rectangular

9.

paper label). Comments: Lenci, model 204, a color and size variation of the doll appearing on the cover of the 1924 Lenci catalog. This actual doll is shown in Lenci, The History and the Dolls by Nancy Lazenby, page 64. Value Points: vibrant and well-preserved costume, the doll has unusual construction detail and charming petite size of lady doll. $1100/1300

9. Black-Complexioned Bellman with Winking Expression, Model 107

10” (25 cm.) Black felt swivel head with pressed facial features, painted brown eyes with one eye half-closed as though winking, dot brows, closed mouth with impish crooked smile, firmly-stuffed body, jointing at shoulders and hips, stitched-on white gloves and shoes with black tips. Wearing two-piece red felt bellman uniform with brass button and matching stitched-on cap with black strap. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, circa 1920, the doll was shown in Lenci’s premiere advertising of 1920 described as “#10 Lift Negro” (see page 8). Value Points: exceptionally fine state of preservation of both doll and costume on this rare model. The actual doll is shown in Lenci, The History and the Dolls by Nancy Lazenby, page 53. $1100/1300

10. Premiere Celebrity Doll “Salome” with Unique Swivel Waist Construction, Model 104

16” (41 cm.)

Firmly-pressed amber brown felt swivel head with elongated throat, head tilted to the side, brown painted eyes with heavily-modeled eyelids and black eyeliner and lashes, closed mouth with provocative smile, painted teeth, stitched ears, black wiry stitched-on hair, slender elongated felt torso and limbs, swivel waist, three middle stitched fingers, baby finger and thumbs separate. Wearing russet and orange felt costume comprising skirt strips with loop and bead dangles, fringed sash, matching vest with fringed edges, matching fringed coronet and netting, matching sandals, bangle earrings. Condition: doll is fair/good, costume is excellent, moth holes at sides of head, tip of nose, ankles, feet, rump. Comments: Lenci, the doll was first mentioned in a December 1919 article in the Italian monthly Noi & IL Mondo, and then appeared in the 1920 ad in Playthings magazine and in the 1920 Au Printemps catalog identified as “#7 Salome” for 129 fr. Value Points: important premiere model with intriguing social history and great rarity, unusual construction detail of swivel waist. $1600/1900

The silent film, Salome, of scandalous fame, starring Theda Bara had premiered in 1918, and it is likely the doll was inspired by this film.

Theda Bara in her 1918 role as Salome

Rudolph Valentino as “The Sheik”

11. Vest detail

11. Boots

11. Face

11. Extremely Rare Italian Felt Portrait Doll of Valentino as “The Sheik”

30” (76 cm.) Felt swivel head with firmly-pressed and painted angular facial features, strongly-defined cheeks, jaw and nose structure, painted brown side-glancing eyes, painted thick brows and lashes, accented nostrils, closed mouth, brown cropped weft-stitched hair, elongated torso and jointed limbs, molded bent elbows. Condition: generally excellent, two tiny moth holes in coat. Comments: Lenci, the model #560 appeared in their 1928 catalog, and portrays Valentino in the then current films “The Sheik” and “The Son of the Sheik”. Value Points: an extremely rare model with distinctive facial sculpting for this model only and having extraordinary detail of original costume, in exemplary state of preservation, including details of embroidery, felt and metallic appliques, leather tooled and ornamented high boots, jeweled sword, jeweled rings, leather belt, felt lined coat ,and other accouterments, all of them original. Few examples are known to exist, this example in likely the finest condition known. $12,000/17,000

Photograph in 1928 Lenci catalog

12. Extremely Rare Premiere Issue Chinese Man with Costume Symbol

14” (36 cm.) Felt swivel head with mask pressed face, thick throat, hand-painted blue side-glancing eyes, black brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth with row of painted teeth, stitched ears, black silk floss wig with long queue, applied horseshoe moustache, yellow felt firmly-stuffed torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips, white stitchedon gloved hands. Wearing yellow felt shirt with black Chinese lettering on chest, blue felt tunic with red appliques, black felt skirt with blue edging, stitched-on black velvet cap with gilt embroidery. Condition: excellent, slight fading of jacket. Comments: Lenci, circa 1920, this exact doll is shown in Lenci, The History and the Dolls, by Nancy Lazenby, described as “extremely rare” and “probably painted by Elena Scavini”. Value Points: the rarity of the early model is rivaled by its fine state of preservation.

$1200/1500

13. Early Model Dutch Boy with Character Face, Model 102, with early 1923 Button

14” (36 cm.) Felt swivel head with pressed facial features, brown side-glancing

eyes

with dark eyeliner, one-stroke brows, accented nostrils, closed thin-line mouth with downcast lips, stitched ears, firmlystuffed muslin torso and limbs, felt mitten hands, jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing tan felt jacket with bead buttons, turquoise pants with very full legs and felt patches, matching stitchedon cap, wooden shoes. Condition: costume is excellent except some fading at back pants, felt is worn at back lower head, felt rub on nose. Marks: Lenci (1923 metal button). Comments: Lenci, 1923, model 102. This doll is shown in Lenci, The History and the Dolls by Nancy Lazenby, page 53. Value Points: hard to find 1923 button, the doll has excellent handpainted face. $700/900

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12. Back

14. Early Trademark Model of Chinese Opium Smoker with Pipe

11” (28 cm.) Felt swivel head with mask face, amber-tinted complexion, very plump cheeks, high domed forehead, modeled closed eyes with long painted lashes, high comma-shaped brows, closed mouth with original hole in center for pipe stem, stitched ears, black stitched-on yarn wig pulled tightly from face and forming into a long queue, plump stomach, short jointed legs, jointed arms. Wearing costume of yellow felt tunic with green felt appliques, black felt pants with yellow appliques, green felt shoes with yellow soles, ballshaped felt cap that is stitched on and is carrying his original wooden opium pipe. Condition: very good/excellent, felt is worn at low back neck. Comments:

Lenci, circa 1921, the doll was identified in Lenci advertisement in 1922 Playthings magazine as their “trademark” doll. Value Points: uniquely modeled doll both in facial shape and painting, and in his hearty stout body.

$1100/1300

15. Masked Harlequin from “Carnaval de Venise” Series for Paris Au Printemps

18” (46 cm.) Slender adult doll, swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, darkened complexion, brown side-glancing eyes, coral-shaded lips, elongated body, jointing at shoulders and hips, mitten hands. Wearing stitchedon costume in vibrant harlequin pattern of pink, fuchsia, black and green felt, felt ruffled collar, black felt cap, black felt mask, wooden-heeled felt shoes, and carrying wooden painted magic wand used by the harlequin character to change the scenery of the play. Condition: generally excellent, slight fading of lower front legs. Comments: Lenci, circa 1920, the doll was featured in the 1920 Printemps catalog described as “#5 Arlequin” selling for 135 fr”, depicting the witty character Harlequin; three years later the doll was featured in the 1924 “Carnaval de Venise” Lenci series presented at the Magasin de Printemps Parisian department store. Value Points: the rarely found doll features unusual details such as specially designed shoes and wooden batte or magic wand. $1200/1600

16. Premiere Model Black Complexioned Jester with Fancy Upturned Shoes

13” (33 cm.) Firmlyshaped black felt swivel head, elongated throat, painted facial features, googly-shaped blue oil-painted side-glancing eyes, tiny nose with accented nostrils, heartshaped lips, black fleecy stitched-on hair, elongated felt body with stitchattached jester costume in orange, teal blue and cream felt, black mitten hands, black felt leggings, orange felt shoes with upturned toes trimmed in blue felt tassels, teal blue stitched-on cap, holding felt flowers in right hand. Condition: doll is excellent, few moth holes at back of

jacket. Comments: Lenci, circa 1920. Value Points: very rare early model, likely a premiere issue, with well-preserved colors and characterization.

$1000/1100

17. Very Rare Early Period Character Clown with Uniquely-Sculpted Face

21” (53 cm.) including hat. Felt swivel head with elongated stitched-on mask face, pressed facial features, pointy chin, large stitched ears, “O” shaped down-glancing brown eyes, side-stroked large brows, red nose, angled mouth, clown decorations, black felt skull cap, elongated slender torso, jointing at shoulders, hips, and knees, arms modeled bent at the elbows, very slim legs with very elongated black felt feet. Wearing stitchedon black felt shirt and shoes, and with red and white checkered felt wide-leg pants decorated with black pom-poms which are repeated on his yellow clown hat, yellow sash with green band and red pom-pom which are repeated on his shoe tops, red and black ruffled felt collars and cuffs. Condition: doll is excellent except some typical wear to felt at the back neck as found on early models, costume vibrant and colorful with some few moth holes. Comments: Lenci, the style of face construction indicates 1920-21 production from the earliest models; another example is known with earliest Lenci medal button. Based upon its early production during the celebrity era, it is possible the doll was a portrait of a yet-unidentified famous clown of the era. Value Points: very rare model with face sculpted for this model only and enhanced with original hand-painted details of face and imaginative and colorful costume. $2500/3500

While Pierrot and Harlequin ruled the French and Italian Commedia dell’arte during the early 1900s, providing a major source of inspiration for the early dolls of Lenci, the Circus was not far behind. The creation and design of clowns, for example, began with this early 1920 model and continued throughout the Scavini years in various sizes and facial models.

18. Barefoot “Winker” in Original Costume, with Silver Lenci Button

11” (28 cm.) Felt swivel head with pressed mask face, painted facial features, eyes sculpted to appear as though he is winking with painted blue left eye nearly shut, painted lashes and eyeliner, “dash” brows, rounded nose with accent dots, closed mouth with accented bottom lip, stitchedon large ears, black fleecy silk hair, jointing at shoulders and hips, five separate fingers, flat bare feet. Wearing purple felt neck scarf, brown jacket, brown pants with black patches, shirt, belt. Condition: generally excellent. Marks: (original 1920-1921 silver button at jacket back). Comments: Lenci, the winker model, #121, circa 1920, and presented in various costume color combinations, always barefoot. Value Points: rare early model, earliest metal pin is well preserved. $600/800

19. Barefoot Native American “Winker” in Original Costume, with Silver Lenci Button

11” (28 cm.) Brown felt swivel head with pressed mask face, painted facial features, right eye sculpted to appear as though he is winking, painted blue left eye, dot brows, closed smiling mouth, war paint accents, stitched-on ears, brown fleecy silk hair braids, brown felt torso and limbs, jointing at

in the 1920 ad in Printemps catalog described as “#2 Indien” selling for 59 fr. (see page 4 of this catalog). Value Points: rare variation of the beloved “winker” with distinctive color of felt doll and artistic painting. $600/800

20. Red-haired “Winker” Girl with Basket of Vegetables, Model 264

13” (33 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, narrow brown side-glancing eyes, right eye nearly closed as though winking, thick brown curly lashes, fringed brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth with coral-shaded lower lip, carrot-red mohair wig, jointing at shoulders and hips, barefoot with distinct big toe. Wearing brown wool felt dress with black edging, grey felt apron and neck scarf, black beret, undergarment, carrying a basket of felt garden vegetables.

shoulders and hips, five separate fingers, flat bare feet. Wearing flannel tunic and pants with fringed and embroidered detail, purple headband with feather. Condition: generally excellent, few small moth holes on shirt. Marks: (original 1920-1921 silver button at right toe). Comments: Lenci, circa 1920, this variation of the winker model appeared

19.

18.

Condition: generally excellent, small rub on chin. Comments: Lenci, the winking lady, model 264, a variation of the popular model that first appeared in 1920; this doll with basket of felt vegetables and flowers appeared in the 1926 catalog as model 264. Value Points: wonderful rare hair color accentuates the costume and vegetables; girl winking models are rare to find.

$800/1000

21. Extremely Rare Early Period Red-Haired Russian Cossack in Uniform

23” (58 cm.) Felt swivel head with mask face, deeply-pressed facial features with strong nose and chin, stern expression, outlined blue side-glancing eyes with grey eye shadow, thick brows, closed mouth, accented bottom lip, bright red hair weftsewn to head, elongated slender felt body, jointing at shoulders, elbows, hips and knees. Wearing long felt jacket with ammunition pockets over blue felt tunic with grey edging and blue felt covered buttons, wide leg black pants, white leather boots, brown felt sash with carved wooden scabbard, and black traditional fleeced cap. Condition: doll is excellent, costume is strong and vibrant with few small moth holes, hands may be later replacements. Comments: Lenci, the head construction indicates production pre-1923; the historically elite cavalry guard Russian Cossacks figured prominently in the political upheaval in Russia 1917-1922 and likely inspired Elena di Scavini’s model. It is not known if the doll was designed as a specific portrait doll. Value Points: very rare early model in fine state of preservation with unique characteristics such as red hair, kidskin boots, wooden scabbard.

$2500/3200

Fashionable “Meme” in Grey Felt Ensemble, Series 110/46

19” (48 cm.)

Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes, tiny painted upper lashes, one-stroke brows, grey eye shadow, accented nostrils, closed mouth, shaded lower lip with two accent dots, brunette weft-stitched curly frizzed hair, felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips, two middle fingers stitchattached. Wearing green felt dropped waist dress with hip sash, pink and magenta felt applique striping on skirt and wide neck sash, teal green edging on collar and cuffs, organdy slip and matching undie, socks, grey flannel shoes, large grey flannel bow. Condition: generally excellent. Marks: Lenci Turin Italy

Di E Scavini Made in Italy 110/46 Pat. Sept 8 1921 (rectangular paper label). Comments: Lenci, the doll appeared in the 1926 catalog, named “Meme”, as the revised slimmer body of the earlier 110 model. Value Points: wonderful fashionable child in fine state of preservation, original label; the actual doll is shown in Lenci, The History and the Dolls by Nancy Lazenby, page 82. $1200/1500

Color illustration in 1921 Lenci catalog

23. Girl in Red Checkered Dress with Jump Rope, Series 109/30

23” (58 cm.)

Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, small brown side-glancing eyes, fringed upper lashes, one-stroke brows, grey eye shadow, accented nostrils, small closed mouth with two accent dots on bottom lip, brunette mohair stitched-on wig with two coiled side braids, felt torso and legs, jointing at shoulders and hips, finger stitched for holding handles of jump rope. Wearing red felt dress with checkered design in beige and dark browns, double collar, brown felt neck tie, organdy petticoat and undergarments, socks, red felt shoes, and holding woven jump rope with wooden handles. Condition: generally excellent, one small dent at back right side of throat. Marks: Lenci made in Italy (woven white tag). Comments: Lenci, model 30 from 109 series, the doll was illustrated in the 1928 Lenci catalog. Value Points: very fine state of preservation with very expressive facial sculpting and painting, strong fresh costume. $1200/1500

Photograph in 1928 catalog

24. Elfin Figure “Uzzolo” with Leaf Hat, Model 271

7” (18 cm.) Brown felt swivel head, pressed and painted features, brown side-glancing eyes, painted curly lashes, side curvy brows, closed mouth with wide smile and four painted teeth, sculpted dimples, mythical large pointed ears, stitched-on green felt plump torso, jointed arms bent at elbows with intertwined clasped fingers, jointed hips of green felt legs, attached long red tail. Wearing yellow felt collar with diamond point edging, matching cuffs, padded striped leg bands, stitched-on orange shoes with yellow accents, wide-brimmed green hat with large green cloverleaf accent. Condition: generally excellent, slight fading. Marks: Lenci, Made in Italy (cloth woven label under collar). Comments: Lenci, model 271 from 1926 catalog in which the figure was named “Uzzolo” (Italian for whimsical or caprice). Value Points: delightful design incorporating

imaginative pose such as clasped hands, rare features including ears and painted teeth. $1200/1700

25. Character “Pan” with Wooden Hooves and Horn Instrument, Model 203

8 ½” (22 cm.) Light tan felt swivel head, highly-characterized pressed and painted features, narrow sideglancing brown painted eyes with

Photograph in 1926 Lenci catalog

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brown eyeliner, painted curly upper lashes, arched brows, wide grinning expression, painted teeth, looped woolen hair with felt floral coronet, felt horns, wide ears, jointed arms and brown goatshaped legs with wooden hooves, looped woolen “fur” on upper legs, extended tail. Condition: excellent with very minor fading. Comments: Lenci, model 203, presented as “Pan”, the half man/half goat mythological figure, in the 1929 catalog. Value Points: most imaginative character with stitched-on costume and with original wooden horn instrument. $800/1200

26. Character “Cupido” with Wings and Bow and Arrow, Model 276, with Original Box

7” (18 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, side-glancing blue eyes, painted upper lashes, dash brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth, red wool yarn hair

in tightly-arranged curls, felt torso with jointing at shoulders and hips, outstretched arms. Condition: generally excellent. Marks: Lenci, Made in Italy 276 (box label) Lenci made in Italy (white woven label). Comments: Lenci, circa 1928, the model appeared in an early Lenci catalog, named “Cupido”, model 276. Value Points: rare Cupid figure with delightful felt costume with embroidered hearts, red-strapped yellow boots, red gloves, felt wings, and carrying wooden bow and arrow in a wooden-decorated sheath filled with more arrows. $1500/2200

Color illustration in 1928 Lenci catalog

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Photograph in 1929 Lenci catalog

27. Very Rare Exotic Eastern Lady, Model 567, with Wooden Pipe

27” (69 cm.) Felt head with slender oval face and pressed facial features, narrow brown side-glancing eyes with heavy eyelids, dark eyeliner and painted lower lashes, arched brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth with hint of smile, painted teeth, black weft-stitched wig in long braids, elongated throat, torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders, hips and knees, high heel posed feet. Wearing felt harem style costume comprising green shirt with embroidered details, fitted brown jacket with colorful and gold metallic embroidery, long sash with tassels, cream felt harem pants and matching elaborately folded turban cap, embroidered slippers with upturned toes, and carrying wooden pipe with painted details. Condition: very good, some moth holes at lower torso and ankles, light fading on costume. Comments: Lenci, model 567, the doll was featured in the 1929 catalog and shown in Lenci The History and the Dolls by Nancy Lazenby, page 153 in the category of extremely rare dolls. Value Points: the rarely found doll has rare painted teeth, intricate embroidery on jacket and slippers, original wooden pipe. $1400/1800

28. Red-Haired “Boris” with Vodka Jug, Model 275

10” (25 cm.) Felt swivel head, unusual flat-cut chin of very broad face with plump cheeks, impressed facial features, painted round blue side-glancing eyes, curly upper lashes, accented nostrils, closed mouth with beaming smile, row of painted teeth, carrotred auburn wig in bobbed style, felt and muslin body with firmly-stuffed torso, jointed arms, floppy legs. Wearing vibrant pink tunic with richly embroidered details in the peasant style, brown slacks, green felt high boots with embroidered detail, tall brown hat, and carrying decorated wooden vodka bottle. Condition: generally excellent, slight fading. Marks: Lenci (fragments of two early

paper labels). Comments: Lenci, from the rare early fetish series, this model described as “Boris”, model 275 in the 1926 catalog. Value Points: very rare model with wonderfully characterized face, highly detailed costume, red hair. $1800/2200

Photograph in 1926 Lenci catalog

29. Miniature Russian Boy in Similar Costume to “Ivan”, Model 45

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown down/side- glancing large round eyes, painted curly upper lashes, singlestroke brows, accented nostrils, “O” shaped mouth, brunette hair, jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing Russian peasant costume comprising green felt jacket with embroidered flowers, matching green felt boots, yellow shirt, black pants, sash, brown cap with black brim and with white gloves. Condition: near mint. Marks: Lenci (cloth and paper labels). Comments: Lenci, model 45 as indicated on back of paper label, 1930s. Value Points: pristine condition of the miniature doll with well-detailed costume. $300/400

30. Very Rare and Splendid Red-Haired “Ivan”, Model 186, in Traditional Russian Costume

39” (99 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features with strong definition of cheek bones, painted narrow side-glancing blue eyes in deeply set sockets, fringed lashes and curvy brows, accented nostrils of point tip nose, closed mouth with wide beaming smile, row of painted teeth, weft-stitched carrot-red mohair wig, elongated felt torso and legs, jointed shoulders, hips and knees, modeled bent right elbow. Wearing superbly-detailed vibrant costume in the Russian folklore style having green felt jacket that is richly appliqued with felt floral and symbolic designs on the front, back and sleeves, with braided sash, yellow tunic, black short pants, high leather boots with embroidered detail, white gloves, brown cap with black leather brim. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Lenci, the model appeared in the 1926 catalog as model #186, and two years later in the 1928 catalog was designated as “Ivan” #186. Value Points: very rare model has notable distinctive modeling, rare red hair, and is in outstanding state of preservation with vibrantly designed costume. $3500/4500

Photograph in 1926 Lenci catalog

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31. Earliest Child Doll with Distinctive Plump Face, Model 108, with Metal Button

14” (36 cm.) Felt swivel head with unusual squareshaped plump cheeks and mask face with pressed and painted features, pale blue side-glancing eyes, dot brows, accented nostrils, small closed mouth with downcast lips, stitched ears, weft-stitched exuberant mohair curly hair, firmly-stuffed body, jointing at shoulders and hips, separated fingers. Wearing pink and grey felt one-piece dress with scalloped edging at hem, one-piece undie.

Condition: very good, few light spots at back sleeve. Marks: (first metal button at back of skirt). Comments: Lenci, earliest period doll, model 108, 1920, from the series of dolls presented in October 1920 Playthings magazine ad in which the dolls were named “Scavini Dolls” rather than Lenci doll. Value Points: very rare to find early model with original costume and metal tag. $1100/1300

32. Early Period Side-Glancing Child with Dot Lashes

16” (41 cm.) Felt swivel head with mask pressed face, painted brown side-glancing eyes, dot lashes, accented nostrils, tiny closed mouth, stitched ears, weft-stitched blonde hair wig, felt torso and legs with

Earliest Lenci metal button at back of skirt 32.

31.

jointing at shoulders and hips, stitched-together fingers, separate thumbs. Wearing coral felt one-piece dress with bands of blue felt as sash and accents, blue felt cloche with coral felt edging and streamer and accented with felt flowers, one-piece undergarments, socks, coral slippers with blue edging. Condition: doll is excellent, dress is faded. Comments: Lenci, early period model, circa 1921. Value Points: dear petulant expression on the rare to find early model. $400/500

33. Rare Early Variation of Child Doll, Model 110, with Metal Button Tag

18” (46 cm.) Felt swivel head with pressed and painted mask face, stitched ears, very plump chin, brown side-glancing eyes with decorative glaze, painted curly upper lashes, dot brows, accented nostrils of tiny nose, very full brunette mohair wig weft-sewn to scalp, felt torso and limbs, mitten hands, jointed arms and legs. Wearing fuchsia felt pinafore dress with pink detailing and unusual box pleating, unusual one-piece original undergarment, fuchsia shoes. Condition: doll is excellent, shoes and back of dress are faded. Marks: (earliest Lenci metal button on undergarment). Comments: Lenci, Series 110, the earliest version as appearing in 1920s Playthings magazine. Value Points: very rare doll with wonderful face and expression, exuberant very full curls, unusual undergarment, original metal button. $700/900

33. Appearing in 1920s Playthings magazine

34. Very Rare Harlequin from the Parisian “Carnaval de Venise” Exhibition, Series 193

29 ½” (75 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown eyes glancing to the right, dark eyeliner, painted curly upper lashes, grey eye shadow, fringed brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth, accented lower lip, rooted brunette hair in short cropped style, very elongated torso and legs, jointing at shoulders, hips and knees, pointed toe feet. Wearing vivid harlequin costume of pink tunic and pants with yellow, red and black accent trim and pom-poms, white gloves, red shoes, unusual wide hoop-like overskirt, and wide-brimmed pointy-tip hat with extended pink-stemmed yellow felt flower. Condition: doll is excellent, costume is complete with some light fading of pink. Comments: Lenci, the doll was featured in a Lenci 1924 Parisian exhibition “Carnaval de Venise”, and in 1925 appeared in the Lenci catalog as model 193, partnered with the following lot of this catalog. Value Points: the very rare model with fantastical costume in vivid design is well-preserved. $4500/6500

35. The Red-Haired Partner Harlequin from “Carnaval de Venise”, Series 194

29 ½” (75 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown eyes glancing to the left, dark eyeliner, painted curly upper lashes, grey eye shadow, fringed brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth, accented lower lip, rooted bright red hair in short cropped style, very elongated torso and legs, jointing at shoulders, hips and knees, pointed toe feet. Wearing vivid harlequin costume of pink fitted tunic and pants diamondpoint appliques in yellow, red and black felt, and with dramatic black felt pom-poms which edge the sleeves and pants and dangle from the skirt, white gloves, red shoes, and floppy pink felt beret with black brim and white flower. Condition: doll is excellent, costume is complete with some fading of pink. Comments: Lenci, the doll was featured in a Lenci 1924 Parisian exhibition “Carnaval de Venise”, and in 1925 appeared in the Lenci catalog as model 194, partnered with the previous lot of this catalog. Value Points: rare red hair enhances the generous pom-poms of the rare harlequin costume. $3500/4500

Photograph in 1925 Lenci catalog

34. Detail

35. Detail

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36. Auburn-Haired Girl in Orange Felt Costume, Early Series 149/Z

16” (41 cm.) Felt swivel head with oval face and pressed facial features, large

brown side-glancing eyes, painted curly upper lashes, brushstroked brows, accented nostril, closed mouth with two accent dots on lower lip, auburn mohair weft-sewn to scalp, felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing orange felt dress with golden felt scalloped trim and applique flowers, matching hair bow, matching felt shoes, socks, organdy slip and panties. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Lenci, the early 1925 version of Series 149, this being Z model, the actual doll was shown and discussed in Lenci, The History and The Dolls by Nancy Lazenby, page 103. Value Points: important doll in study of the 149 series evolution, with

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especially delightful costume that well retains its original vibrancy and color.

$500/800

37. Auburn-Haired Child in Fashionable Red Ensemble, Series 111

13” (33 cm.) Felt swivel head with pressed facial features, large brown side-glancing eyes, black upper eyeliner and curly lashes, single-stroke brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth with two accent dots on lower lip, weft-stitched auburn mohair fleecy wig, felt torso and legs, jointing at shoulders and hips, two middle fingers stitched together. Wearing red felt coat with black felt accents, matching cap with diamond-shape felt inserts, matching shoes with black edging, socks, organdy petticoat and undergarment and fluffy wool muff. Condition: generally excellent, two small moth holes at back. Marks: (original paper label). Comments: Lenci, series 111, 1926/1927. Value Points: captivating impish expression, wonderful hair, and beautifullypreserved vibrant costume on the early series doll. $900/1200

38. “Boxer” with Leather Boxing Gloves, Model 1005

17 ½” (44 cm.) Felt swivel head with pressed and painted facial features, brown painted eyes gazing sharply to the side, dark eye shadow, painted upper eyeliner and lashes, fringed brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth, brunette wig, hollow felt torso, felt arms and legs, jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing red felt tank top, tan, felt shorts, black tam, leather laced boots, and with large padded boxing gloves. Condition: generally excellent. Marks: Lenci Di E. Scavine Made in Italy 1005...(rectangular paper label). Comments: Lenci, 1929, the model was shown in the 1929 catalog identified only as “1000/5”, from the firm’s 1000 Sport Series which used the 300 facial model. $1100/1500

Three years earlier, a Lenci doll wearing an identical boxing costume to this doll was named in the 1926 Lenci catalog as “Tunney”, likely a reference to the US

boxer, Jim (Gene) Tunney, who held US light heavyweight titles in 1922 and 1923, and held the world heavyweight title from 1926 to 1928. Although the costumes are identical, it is not known if the “1005 Boxer” was also intended to represent Tunney, or simply made use of existing designs.

Photograph from 1929 Lenci catalog

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39. Early Portrait “Hu Sun” with Opium Pipe, Model 251, from Asian Series

23” (58 cm.) Felt swivel head with pressed and painted facial features, oval-shaped face, light amber complexion, very narrow side-angled painted brows, eyes with very thick eyeliner and fringed lower lashes, high arched brows, angular nose, mouth designed to hold the stem of pipe, black inserted mohair wig with widow’s peak

at the center forehead and extended-length black mohair queue, jointing at shoulders, hips and knees allowing her to kneel or sit cross-legged, and her arms arranged bent at the elbows with her fingers gracefully holding a longstemmed wooden opium pipe. Wearing sienna felt tunic with embroidered detail and borders, black trousers, felt stacked slippers with exquisite applique and embroidery, and holding a wooden opium pipe with hand-painted decorations. Condition: generally excellent. Marks: Lenci, Di E Scavini

Made in Italy 251... (rectangular paper label). Comments: Lenci, 1924, early model from the firm’s Asian series, “Hu Sun, 251” was shown seated kneeling alongside Fukuruko in the firm’s 1924 catalog. Value Points: very rare early model with long queue is beautifully preserved, wearing vibrant original felt costume. $7500/9500

40. Extremely Rare Legendary Character

“Fukuruko”, Model 190, from the Asian Series

12” (30 cm.) Light brown felt head with highly-defined modeling of facial features, very elongated forehead, narrow side-glancing eyes with unusual grey/black irises, thick brown eyeliner, accented nostrils of broad nose, closed mouth modeled as though open with fierce expression, row of painted teeth, tongue, stitched-on very over-sized ears, stitched-on red hair and flowing beard, stubby and plump brown felt body, over-sized feet. Wearing bright orange robe

Photograph from 1924 Lenci catalog

with yellow embroidery and yellow felt lining, over purple/magenta felt jacket, yellow felt undergarments, orange sleeves, purple felt obi, magenta felt slippers and carrying a fruit in one hand and his wooden staff in the other. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Lenci, the model appeared in the firm’s 1924 catalog identified as “Fukuruko”, model 190, one of a series of Asian models by the firm. The figure, actually a representation of the Fukurokuju. the Japanese god of longevity, was traditionally presented with the unusually elongated forehead, and wearing the garments of a Chinese scholar, holding a staff. Value Points: extremely rare

Lenci model has superbly retained its vibrant crisp colors of carrot-red mohair hair and flowing beard, and elaborately layered and embroidered costume. $8000/11,000

41. Extremely Rare Sultan with Painted Wooden Accessories and Tasseled Cushion, Model 168

10” (25 cm.) seated. 13” with cushion. Brown felt swivel head with mask pressed facial features, narrow painted brown eyes with dark grey all-around eyeliner, dot brows, broad nose, painted smiling lips of closed mouth, two accent dots on lower lip, brown felt pear-shaped plump torso, brown felt arms and legs which are modeled in seated pose, jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing turquoise felt fitted jacket which is fully lined with yellow felt and decorated with embroidery of elephants, lions and symbols, wide white felt pants fitted at the ankles, yellow felt slippers with upturned toes, very full felt turban. Condition: generally excellent. Marks: (partial early rectangular paper label with model number 168). Comments: Lenci, early 1920s, from the firm’s Asian series; the doll did not appear in any of the firm’s catalogs and may have been a special commission. This actual doll is shown in Lenci, The History and The Dolls by Nancy

Lazenby, page 153 in the chapter “Extremely Rare Dolls”. Value Points: outstanding doll is very fine condition also includes its own felt padded cushion with applique designs and black tassels, and various wooden jewelry including one wooden bangle earring, two wooden bracelets, fan and necklace of carved elephant, each with hand painted detail. $6500/8500

42. Early Brown-Complexioned Felt African Girl

16” (41 cm.) Brown felt oval-shaped swivel head, painted brown side-glancing eyes, black curly upper lashes, one-stroke brows, tiny accented nostrils, closed mouth with very full lips, stitchedon black wiry hair with woven ties, slender elongated torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips, separate big toe, unjointed fingers. Wearing reed skirt with colorful felt ribbons, wooden bead necklace, bangle earrings and bracelet. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, early 1920s from the exotic series issued by the firm during that era. Value Points: perfectly-preserved doll with sturdy shape, artistic painting, original costume and accessories. $800/1100

41. Necklace and fan detail

41. Jacket detail

43. Blonde Haired Child in Flower Garland Dress, Series 111/M

11” (28 cm.) Felt swivel head with pressed facial features, large brown sideglancing eyes, black upper eyeliner and curly lashes, grey eye shadow, single-

stroke brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth with two accent dots on lower lip, weft-stitched blonde mohair fleecy wig, felt torso and legs, jointing at shoulders and hips, mitten hands. Wearing brilliant orange felt dress with yellow felt banding and a lavish garland of eight colorful felt flowers, matching cloche with floral accents, organdy undergarment, socks, orange felt shoes. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Lenci, series 111/M, 1924, this exact doll is shown in a full page photo in Lenci, The History and The Doll, page 193. Value Points: the charming fashionable costume is wonderfully preserved with vibrant colors. $700/900

44. Miniature Chinese Boy on Turtle, Model 3009

6” (15 cm.) A felt turtle with felt applique “shell” design and black bead eyes serves as the cushion for an all-felt Asian boy with swivel head, sienna-tinted complexion, painted facial features, closed eyes, accented nostrils, closed mouth, black mohair wig pulled sharply away from face and forming a narrow queue that extends beneath an attached straw hat. Wearing original yellow and red felt costume with woven straw slippers to match his hat.

Condition: structurally excellent, very dusty. Comments: Lenci, early 1920s, model 3009, with stylistic resemblance to the opium smoker by Lenci of the same era.

Value Points: very

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rare model with charming concept and portrayal.

$400/600

45. TousleHaired “Renato” in Smoking

Ensemble with Wooden Pipe, Series 300/G

17 ½” (44 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, dark brown side-glancing eyes, painted upper eyeliner and lashes, grey eye shadow, accented nostrils, closed mouth with accent dots on bottom lip, weft-stitched mohair fleecy curls, felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips, mitten hands. Wearing lime green felt smoking jacket with two pockets and matching pants, each trimmed with purple and green diamond-patterned appliques, matching felt slippers, felt brown shirt with black felt tie, green braided sash. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Lenci, the doll appeared in the 1926 Lenci catalog as “Renato 300/G” and was one of the first of the 300 series. Value Points: very fine state of preservation with vibrant colors enhancing the imaginative design, with original wooden smoking pipe with “Lenci” signature on stem.

$1200/1600

45. Wooden pipe with Lenci signature on stem

Color illustration from 1926 Lenci catalog

46. Pink Pig Fetish with Original Label

4 ½” (11 cm.) Firmly stuffed pink felt pig with tinted shading on cheeks and belly, stitchedon tinted ears, stitch-defined nose, tiny pink bead eyes, original neck ribbons, curled felt tail, attached felt hanging loop. Condition: near

mint. Marks: Lenci Torino (cloth label on under-belly). Comments: Lenci, model 272, first appearing in the 1926 Lenci catalog and made for a number of years. The actual object is shown in Lenci, The History and the Dolls, page 161. Value Points: charming novelty is perfectly preserved, constructed with fine artistic details that add flavor. $400/500

47. Blonde Dutch Girl with Pot of Tulips, Series 300/V

17 ½” (44 cm.) Felt swivel head with pressed and painted facial features, small brown side-glancing eyes, dark upper eyeliner with painted lashes, grey

eye shadow, accented nostrils, closed mouth with accented lower lip, stitchedon ears, blonde mohair wig with ringlet curls, felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips, two middle fingers stitched together. Wearing felt traditional dress with well-detailed embroidery and applique on bodice and sleeves, blue and white checkered upper skirt, brown felt skirt, blue felt apron, pink felt cap with elaborate embroidery over net undercap, stiffened muslin petticoat and pantalets with scalloped edging, heavy woolen stockings with colorful edging. Condition: generally excellent, slight fading. Marks: Lenci Di E Scavini Made in Italy 300 V (rectangular paper label). Comments: Lenci, series 300V, 1927, the first edition of the Dutch girl. Value Points: exceptional detail of embroidery and applique work, the girl also holds a wooden flower pot with felt tulip. $1100/1300

The folklore models of the 300 series were often presented as pairs. The Dutch boy and girl were the first of these international folklore dolls.

48. Brown-Eyed Dutch Boy with Shoulder Buckets

17 ½” (44 cm.) Felt swivel head with pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes, black upper eyeliner with curly lashes, grey eye shadow, accented nostrils, closed mouth, accent dots on lower lips, stitched ears, inserted light brown hair with side part, felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips, two middle fingers stitched together. Wearing black felt double breasted jacket with silver buttons, red felt shirt, blue and green checkerboard full pants, wooden shoes, black felt cap with silky plush border, black leatherette brim and band. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Lenci, series 300/11, 1929. Value Points: the well-designed costume with intricate patchwork on pants is accentuated with wooden yoke with two wooden buckets. $1100/1300

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Photograph from 1927 Lenci catalog

47. Details

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49. Extremely Rare Chinese Girl, “Dschang-Go”, Model 188

23” (58 cm.) Felt swivel head with mask face, pressed and painted facial features, light-amber complexion, very narrow side-glancing brown side-slant eyes, high arched brows, accented nostrils, full cheeks, closed mouth with accented lower lips, black human hair in bobbed style with long queue at the back, stitchjointing at shoulders, elbows, hips and knees allowing the doll to be posed standing or seated, separatelysewn-on felt hands. Wearing one-piece purple felt body suit with fitted dark purple bands at the ankles, two layers of orange tunics with yellow and aqua banding at hem and cuffs, elaborate embroidery of dragon and foliage on outer tunic, orange stacked shoes with embroidered tips. Condition: very good/excellent, slight ding in chin, few moth holes in tunic, fading of pants, missing musical instrument shown in original catalog. Comments: Lenci, the doll appeared in the 1925 catalog described simply as model 188, and in subsequent catalogs with the name “Dschang-Go”; Dschang-Go was one of the eight Chinese immortals, and, interestingly, two other Chinese character dolls shown in the 1928 Lenci catalog have names of the Chinese immortals. Value Points: extremely rare Lenci doll with superb detail of silk dragon embroidery on the multi-layered felt costume, rich purple suit under the tunic, felt Chinese slippers with silk embroidery, and carries original wooden pick. $7500/9500

40. Embroidery detail

50. Rare Chinese Boy with Rare Original Lantern, Series 300/59

17 ½” (44 cm.) Felt swivel head, light amber tinted complexion, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes in side-slant sockets, heavily-modeled eyelids, black curly lashes, black eyeliner, black feathered brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth, black mohair bobbed wig with long queue, felt hollow torso, felt arms and legs, jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing vibrant yellow felt tunic and pants with orange felt borders, under a black felt vest with signature medallion center, wooden stacked heels, woven hat and superb wooden lantern with painted decorations on the interior silk shade and vibrantly painted exterior. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Lenci, series, 300/59, the doll was shown in the 1930 Lenci catalog, its costume and accessories being a duplicate of that on the earlier Lenci doll, 188A Lo Tia Guai. Value Points: the rare character, with uniquely painted facial features on amber tinted complexion is superbly preserved. $3500/4500

50. Medallion

50. Lantern

51. Tousle-Haired “Flammetta” With Variation of Coiffure, Series 400/E

16 ½” (42 cm.) Felt swivel head with slender oval shape, elongated throat, pressed and painted facial features, wide-eyed brown side-glancing eyes, painted curly upper lashes, fringed brows, grey eye shadow, closed mouth, accented lower lip, weft-stitched blonde tousled mohair curls, long slender felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing orange felt dress with dropped waist, double-tiered very full skirt, wide sash, cowl neck with ties at

back, undergarments socks shoes, felt flowers in hair. Condition: doll excellent with small smear over left eye, costume is faded with few moth holes. Comments: Lenci, series 400/E, the doll was shown in the 1926 catalog named “Flammetta” with ringlet curls rather than tousled curls. Value Points: stylized flapper era teen-ager, the series was made for three years only, and the dolls are hard to find.

$500/700

52. Brown-Haired Child in Bright Orange Ensemble, Series 450

13” (33 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, painted large brown eyes, painted curly upper lashes, grey lower eyeshadow, single-stroke brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth, accented lower lip, weftstitched brunette wig, jointed felt arms and legs, 2nd and 3rd fingers joined. Wearing orange felt middy blouse and pleated skirt that are trimmed with yellow, gold and white appliques, matching tam with applique diamond design, undergarments, socks, and orange felt shoes.

Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, series 450, 1927. Value Points: artistic painting of face, vibrant and perfectlypreserved costume.

$600/800

Photograph from 1927 Lenci catalog 52.

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53. Bobbed-Hair “Elena” as Tennis Player, Series 400/G

17 ½” (44 cm.) Felt swivel head, elongated slender-face, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-painted eyes, long painted upper lashes, single-stroke brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth, accented lower lip, dark brunette rooted hair, slender felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing felt tennis costume comprising white pleated skirt, green felt sweater with grey, black and yellow argyle felt bands, white felt dickey and headband, white leggings and felt tennis shoes, holding a wooden tennis racquet. Condition: doll is excellent, costume is faded and dusty, moth holes on sweater. Marks: Lenci, Torino (cloth tag on skirt). Comments: Lenci, series 400/G, the doll appeared in the 1926 Lenci catalog named “Elena”. Value Points: well-painted facial features enhanced by stylish bobbed wig. $500/700

54. Slender Teen-Age Flapper Girl in Fashionable Costume, Series 400/D

17 ½” (44 cm.) Felt swivel head, oval slender face and elongated throat, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes, thick curly upper

lashes, grey eye shadow, single-stroke brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth with two accented lower lips, brunette mohair wig with single long ringlet curl, felt body with slender torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing pale green felt dress with green edging, matching fitted cloche, undergarment, black shoes with ankle straps, green felt coat shown in Lenci catalog is lacking. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Lenci, series 400/D, the doll was named “Rita” in the 1926 catalog. Value Points: rare model with artistic finesse such as over-stitch detail on cloche. $500/700

Photograph from 1926 Lenci catalog

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55. Rare “Bellhop” with Distinctive Body Pose, Model

23” (58 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, very round chubby-cheeked face with squared jawline, large blue side-glancing eyes, painted curly lashes at outer upper edge of each eye, grey eye shadow, rounded nose with accented nostrils, closed mouth, accented lower lip, rooted blonde mohair side-parted wig, very firmly-stuffed muslin torso in unusual curved shape, felt arms and legs, jointing at shoulders and hips, separate fingers. Wearing original turquoise-blue felt snugly-fitted bellhop costume with black felt striping and buttons, matching cap, white felt spats, black leather shoes, and is carrying a bouquet of felt flowers. Condition: very good/excellent. Comments: Lenci, model 563, shown in the 1928 catalog. Value Points: hard to find model has distinctive posture which wonderfully contrasts his plump face and wide eyes. $1800/2200

56. Brunette Child in Yellow Organdy Costume, Series 111

12” (30 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, large brown side-glancing eyes, painted curly upper lashes, grey eye shadow, single-stroke brows, closed mouth, accented lower lips, brunette stitched-on wig, felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing yellow organdy dress with tiered ruffled skirt edged in yellow felt, felt bodice, purple felt flower applique, turquoise sunbonnet with purple and pink felt flowers, undergarments, ruffled pantalets, socks, yellow felt slippers. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (square paper tag and white cloth tag). Comments: Lenci Series 111, 1929. Value Points: beautifully-preserved doll with brilliant and artistic costume and original labels. $800/1100

Photograph from 1928 Lenci catalog

57. Brown-Haired Young Boy in Checkered School Costume

13” (33 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, large brown painted side-glancing eyes, painted curly upper lashes, grey eye shadow, accented nostrils, closed mouth, firmly-stuffed muslin torso, jointed felt arms and legs, 2nd and 3rd fingers stitched together. Wearing grey shirt with applique lattice design on front and cuffs, green felt shorts, socks, brown leather laced shoes. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, model 450/0, the doll was shown in the 1930 catalog. Value Points: wonderfully preserved young lad with intricately designed shirt, artistic painting of face. $800/1000

Photograph from 1930 Lenci catalog

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58. Brown-Haired Girl with Pin-Wheel Applique Dress, Series 900

14” (36 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes, long curly upper lashes, single-stroke brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth, accented lower lip, light brown mohair stitchedon wig with coiled side braids, muslin firmlystuffed body, felt arms and legs, jointing at shoulders and with seam-stitched hips. Condition: doll is excellent, costume faded. Marks: Lenci made in Italy (cloth label).

Comments: Lenci, a color variation of series 900/E from the 1928 catalog; the doll was seam stitched at hips to allow easy “floppy” seating; the model is rare to find as only 15 different models were offered over its three years of production. Value Points: the play doll, with seated pose, is hard to find. $300/400

59. Blonde Child in Fashionable Costume, Series/64

19” (48 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, very full cheeks, small brown side-glancing eyes, dark eyeliner and painted curly upper lashes, grey lower eye shadow, single-stroke brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth with accented lower lips, weft-stitched blonde mohair wig, felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing riding ensemble comprising aqua felt jacket with beige collar, cuffs, and buttons, beige jodphur pants with eight button closures on legs, aqua felt tam, leather shoes.

58.

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59.

Condition: doll excellent, costume excellent except fading on jacket front. Comments: Lenci, series 110/64, 1927, the costume was offered in several color variations. Value Points: especially fine detail of facial painting in wonderfully preserved state, rare costume. $600/800

60. Italian Cloth Character by Lenci as Polo Player from Sports Series

17” (43 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, small brown side-glancing eyes, grey eye shadow, painted brown upper curly lashes, accented nostrils, closed mouth, coral-shaped lower lip with accent dots, blonde mohair rooted wig, jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing cream felt shirt and jodphurs, green and black knit vest, green felt helmet cap, knee-high leather boots with straps, and carries wooden polo stick and riding crop. Condition: generally excellent, slight surface dust, small hole in sweater. Comments: Lenci, Series 300/72, the doll appeared in the 1930 catalog. Value Points: delightful model, the shy-faced lad features rare accessories including polo stick, riding crop and high leather boots. $1200/1500

61. Blonde “Alice” in Organdy and Felt Dress, Series 109

23” (58 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, small brown side-glancing eyes, painted curly lashes, grey eye shadow, accented nostrils, closed mouth, accent dots on shaded lower lip, weft-stitched blonde mohair wig in soft curls, felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips, two middle fingers sewn together. Wearing pretty party dress featuring white organdy skirt with black felt applique dots, green felt bodice, pink and yellow scalloped trim at hem, collar and cuffs, felt applique rose, undergarment, socks, green felt shoes.

Condition: excellent. Marks: (square paper Lenci label, and fragment of rectangular Lenci label with name “Alice”).

Comments: Lenci, series 109, “Alice”, circa 1930. Value Points: beautifully-painted face is enhanced by vibrant wellpreserved costume, unusual name tag. $1200/1500

61. Tag

62. Brown-Complexioned “Sam” as “The Sultan’s Moorish Guard”, Model 260

36” (91 cm.) Dark brown felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, side-glancing brown eyes, accented nostrils, red stitched and padded red lips, black tightly-curled rooted wig, brown felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders

and hips, separated fingers. Wearing green felt trousers with inset mirrors and elaborate embroidery, magenta and cream sash, lime green felt embroidered wristlets, wide felt headband with applique patches, embroidered slippers with upturned toes. Condition: doll is excellent except few moth holes on arms, costume has slight fading. Comments: Lenci, the 260 model was offered as this standing version, and also with elongated body designed for seated pose, both identified as model 260, and named “Sam”, described as “The Sultan’s Moorish Guard”; the 260 model was likely made for one or two years only. Value Points: extraordinary detail of costume, with vibrant embroidery and with original wooden accessories including carved necklace, bangle earrings, decorated scimitar. $4500/5500

Color photograph from original Lenci catalog

62. Scimitar

62. Embroidery detail

63. Rare Brown-Complexioned Child Doll “Kufi” in Checkered Dress, Style 261

31” (79 cm.) Dark brown felt swivel head with very plump cheeks, pressed and painted facial features, large brown side-glancing eyes, black painted lashes and brows, broad shaped nose, very full lips of closed mouth, rooted black very full fleecy hair, felt torso and limbs, jointed at shoulders and hips. Wearing felt dress in stitched checkered patterns of red, yellow and green, red felt panties, green felt undershirt, socks, red felt shoes and over-sized hair bow. Condition: excellent except few moth holes on arms and right leg, few tiny moth holes in dress, overall very sturdy and fresh. Comments: Lenci, the model appeared in the Lenci 1925 catalog described as “#261 Kufi”. Value Points: rare early model in luxury grand size with outstanding sculpting of face and beautiful complexion. $3500/4500

Photograph from 1925 Lenci catalog

64. Winker Clown as Hand Puppet, Series 335/3

16” (41 cm.)

including hat. Felt head with pressed and painted facial features, one eye sculpted half-closed as though winking, left eye wide open and side-glancing, painted lashes, clown decorated brows and cheek blush spots, closed mouth with wide smile with painted teeth, felt fringed wig under attached green felt clown hat, yellow felt hollow torso and arms for use as hand puppet, green ruffed collar and hands, dangling brass balls. Marks: Lenci, white cloth label and silver label pencil lettered “Bilala” (?), and Kimport label inside costume. Comments: Lenci, the clown appeared in the 1933 catalog model 335/3, the popular winking motif of the earliest Lenci era continued into the 1930 era. Value Points: especially fine state of preservation on the flirtatious winker. $300/400

64.1. Brunette Character Boy, 1000 Sport Series, in Ski Costume with Accessories

17 ½” (44 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, narrow brown side-glancing eyes, painted dark upper eyeliner and curled lashes, grey eye shadow, lightlyfeathered brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth, brunette stitched-on side-parted curly hair, felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing rare skiing costume with matching knit sweater, scarf, mittens and leggings, matching khaki green felt pants and cap with leather band and feather, leather shoes and shoulder bag, and with original wooden skis and ski poles. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, circa 1928 from the 1000 model sports series. Value Points: rare model with wonderful details of costume and original accessories. $1600/2100

64. Detail

64. Face

65. Blonde Boy in School Uniform, Series 149/21

16” (41 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, painted brown side-glancing eyes, white eye dots, grey eye shadow, brown curly lashes, fringed brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth, accented lower lip, rooted blonde hair in short side-parted fashion, slender felt body with jointing at shoulders and hips, middle fingers joined together. Wearing beige felt pleated shirt with collar, cuffs and epaulets, striped brown felt tie, reddish/brown felt shorts with fly front, socks, leather shoes. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, series 149/21, the doll was photographed in the Lenci 1928 catalog. Value Points: especially fine state of preservation on the little schoolboy with curious gaze. $700/900

66. Blonde-Haired Toddler Boy as Golfer, Series XX/12

6 ½” (17 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, blue sideglancing eyes, painted lashes, single-stroke brows, “O” shaped mouth, blonde stitched-on hair, felt toddler body, tab jointing at shoulders, disc-jointed bent felt legs. Wearing golfing costume of red felt jacket with black buttons, brown and

tan checkered short pants, knit woolen leggings, leather shoes, tan brimmed cap and carrying tan felt golf bag with leather straps and wooden golf clubs. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (cloth and silver foil label lettered XX/12). Comments: Lenci, the rare bent leg miniature series was released in 1931. Value Points: the rarity of the charming golfer is rivaled by its imaginative execution. $500/700

67. Tousle-Haired Miniature Boy in Pajamas with

Candlestick, Series XX/5

6 ½” (17 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, blue side-glancing eyes, painted curly lashes, single-stroke brows, “O” shaped mouth, blonde tousled curls, felt short toddler body with tag-jointing at shoulders, disc-jointed bent felt legs. Wearing white flannel pajamas with blue applique felt stripes, pockets, built-on pajama feet, and carrying wooden

candlestick. Condition: very good, hair a bit sparse, light stain on face. Comments: Lenci, series XX/5, 1931. Value Points: rare model with wonderfully constructed pajama costume. $400/500

68. Tousle-Haired Miniature Girl with Honey Jar, Series XX/39

6 ½” (17 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features brown “O” shaped eyes, painted curly lashes, singlestroke brows, “O” shaped mouth, stitchedon blonde tousled curls, felt short toddler body with tag-jointing at shoulders, disc-jointed bent felt legs. Wearing cream felt romper suit with pink polka dots, pink felt slippers, and carrying wooden honey jar and wooden spoon. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (cloth and silver

69.

foil tag lettered Miniature 39). Comments: Lenci, series XX/39, 1931. Value Points: charming vignette doll with original accessories. $400/600

69. Tousle-Haired Blonde Tyrolean Boy, Series XX

6 ½” (17 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, blue “O” shaped downglancing eyes, painted curly lashes, single-stroke brows, “O” shaped mouth, stitched-on blonde tousled curls, felt short toddler body with tagjointing at shoulders, disc-jointed bent felt legs. Wearing Tyrolean style suit of green and brown felt with green hat decorated with large flower, woolen leggings, leather shoes. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, series XX. 1931. Value Points: wonderful details of costume include suspenders, silver buttons, fancy knit leggings. $500/700

68.

67.

70. Brunette Haired Boy in Black Velvet Suit, Series 300

17” (43 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, small brown side-glancing eyes, dark eyeliner, painted curly lashes, grey eyeshadow, accented nostrils, closed mouth, weft-stitched dark brunette bobbed hair, hollow felt torso, felt arms and legs jointed at shoulders and hips, middle fingers joined. Wearing black velvet best suit comprising tunic with double-layered organdy collar and cuffs with diamond-point edging, white felt faux-placket with tiny black buttons, matching short pants with black buttons, white knit socks with black tops, black leather shoes with little white bows. Condition: generally excellent. Marks: Lenci (square tags). Comments: Lenci, series 300, circa 1933. Value Points: rarely found model with wonderfully detailed costume. $1100/1400

71. Brown-Haired Smiling Girl in Yellow Organdy Dress, Series 149/29

16 ½” (42 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, small brown painted side-glancing eyes, white eye dots, painted upper lashes, grey eye shadow, accented nostrils, closed mouth with smiling expression, row of teeth, rooted light brown mohair wig, firmly-stuffed muslin body, tab-jointed arms, jointed longer legs. Wearing yellow organdy dress with three tiers of scalloped ruffles at the hem, smocked yoke, white organdy collar, cuffs and pocket edging, organdy ruffled slip and pantalets, undergarments, socks, yellow felt shoes. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, series 149/29, the doll was shown in the 1930 catalog with a variant hair style. Value Points: very rare smiling faced variation of the 149 model, lovely delicate costume. $1200/1500

Photograph from 1930 Lenci catalog

72.

73.

72. Brown-Haired Boy in Caped Overcoat, Series 70/6

10 ½” (27 cm.) Felt swivel head with plump face, pressed and painted facial features, painted large brown side-glancing eyes, curly upper lashes, grey eye shadow, fringed brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth with accented lower lip, side-parted weft-stitched brunette mohair wig, felt body, tab jointing at shoulders, jointed hips, middle fingers joined. Wearing dark brown felt overcoat with double-layered cape collar and duffle buttons at waist, teal felt vest, ruffled organdy collar, grey felt trousers, brown felt shoes, and carrying wooden walking stick. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, series 70/6, 1933. Value Points: beautifullyconstructed coat and artistically painted facial features of shy young lad, most appealing large brown eyes. $600/800

73. Brunette Girl in Yellow Organdy Dress, Series 70/2

10 ½” (27 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, small brown side-glancing eyes, lushly painted lashes, fringed brows accented nostrils, closed mouth, accented lower lip, weft-stitched brunette mohair wig, firmly-stuffed muslin body, tab-jointed arms, disc-jointed legs. Wearing yellow organdy dress with three tiers of ruffles on skirt and felt rose at the waist, attached petticoat, puffed sleeves, undergarments, socks, yellow felt shoes, yellow wide-brimmed hat with black band. Condition: generally excellent, some fading of rose. Comments: Lenci, model 70/2, 193. This exact doll is shown in Lenci, The History and the Dolls by Nancy Lazenby page 122, which notes “these little cabinet-size dolls are very hard to find”. Value Points: very dear shy-faced doll in fresh colorful spring costume. $600/800

74. Pair, Felt Miniature Bride and Groom

9” (23 cm.) Each has felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, side-

glancing eyes looking at each other (the bride with blue eyes and the groom with brown eyes), “O” shaped closed mouth, bride with blonde mohair wig, and the groom with brunette short curly wig. The bride wearing organdy tiered gown, pale pink organdy petticoat and pantalets, lace gauntlets, socks, shoes, coronet of felt roses to match her bouquet of felt roses, pearls and veil; and the groom wearing grey felt trousers, black felt jacket, vest, shirt, tie, black leather shoes and black felt top hat. Condition: generally excellent. Marks: Lenci (cloth and paper labels). Comments: Lenci, from their miniature series, early 1930s, models S/37 and S/41. Value Points: considered “one of the most desirable and elusive pairs” of miniatures, according to Lenci, The Dolls and the History by Nancy Lazenby, page 131. $1800/2300

74.

75. Felt “Winker” Hand Puppet Variation of Jackie Coogan

10” (25 cm.) Felt head with pressed and painted facial features, the right eye half-closed as though winking, the brown left eye wide open and side-glancing, painted crooked brows, lashes, closed mouth with smiling expression, row of teeth, hole in mouth with cigarette, red felt wig, designed for use as hand puppet with black felt coat, felt shirt, red felt tie and hankie, and black and tan brimmed cap with lattice design, felt hands. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, the “winker” design was introduced in the first year of production, 1920, and continued in variations for many year. This example is a variation of the Jackie Coogan silent film child star issued by Lenci as one of their miniature series. Value Points: very rare early

doll with outstanding detail of facial modeling and painting, original costume. $600/800

76. Felt Miniature Portrait Doll of Jackie Coogan

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features,

75. Face

large brown side-glancing googly-shaped eyes, long painted upper lashes, arched brows, closed mouth with hole for cigarette, jointing at shoulders and legs. Black patched felt trousers, tan felt shirt, magenta scarf, brown brimmed hat with black felt lattice appliques, black felt shoes and with original cigarette. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (original cloth and paper labels, paper label pencil marked “16 Miniature”). Comments Lenci, early 1930s, the doll is based on early Hollywood child star Jackie Coogan in his signature role as The Kid. Value Points: fresh vibrant condition of the rare to find doll with original labels. $1100/1300

77. Brown-Haired Girl in Aviator Costume, Series 149/17

16” (41 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, large brown side-glancing eyes, brown curly upper lashes, grey eye shadow, closed mouth with accented bottom lip, light brown mohair bobbed wig, tab-jointed shoulders, jointed hips. Wearing grey felt costume comprising jodhpurs-style pants having lacing at the sides, reddish/brown felt edging on pockets, belt and collar, brown buttons, matching grey helmet, black leather shoes. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Lenci, 1928, series 149/17, the doll is said to be inspired by the famed aviator Amelia Earhart, although in the Lenci catalog the doll is simply shown along with other stylishlydressed young girls. Value Points: rare model with outstanding detail of costume construction; the helmet, for example, with petal-shaped panels at the crown for a snug fit. $2200/2700

Photograph of Amelia Earhart

78. Ebony Black Felt Character with Wooden Jewelry, Series 112, Early Metal Button

16” (41 cm.) Black-complexioned felt, swivel head with very plump face, applied felt eye whites and lips, tinted nostrils, black shoebutton eye pupils, black tightly-looped yarn hair, black felt torso and limbs, plump torso, jointing at shoulders and hips, short plump legs, separate fingers. Wearing reed skirt that is interwoven with felt ribbons, wooden bead necklace with carved and painted snake, and snake and tiger wooden earrings. Marks: Lenci (2nd issue round metal button inscribed Lenci, attached to purple ribbon at back). Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Lenci, one of the rare earliest models, the doll was shown in the first Lenci advertisement of 1920 and was included in the 1919 Printemps ad described as “#15 Negre” for a price of 115 fr. Value Points: wonderfully-preserved early doll with hand-painted wooden jewelry. $2600/3200

Marlene Deitrich with two of her favorite Lenci dolls

The model was known to be a particular favorite of early film star Marlene Dietrich as seen in this early photograph of her holding the doll.

79. Black-Complexioned Child with Yellow Sunbonnet, Series 573

18” (46 cm.) Ebony-black felt doll, swivel head with very chubby cheeks, pressed and painted facial features, large googly-like side-glancing painted brown eyes, rounded nose with accent dots, red felt applique heart-shaped lips, black wiry hair, black felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips, bow-legged chubby toddler legs, separate fingers. Wearing red felt dress with white felt puffed sleeves, white organdy apron with pocket, white felt scalloped-edge button panties, yellow wooden sandals with large red felt bow ties, and an extravagant yellow felt sunbonnet trimmed with a grand white felt ribbon and bow accented with red circle felt appliques. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, model 573, 1928. Value Points: very rare model in pristine condition, unusual details of costume including wooden sandals and polka dot bonnet. $3000/4000

79. Profile

80. Felt and Looped Wool Poodle Dog Novelty

6” (15 cm.) Firmly-stuffed burgundy red felt body, three-layer large felt applique eyes, black curly woolen loops forming a crown and tail and covering various parts of torso as though arranged at grooming studio, open mouth, felt tongue, red leash designed as hanging loop. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Lenci, a complete line of miniature felt dogs were introduced in the firm’s 1933 catalog. Value Points: perfectly-preserved rare novelty with wonderfully imaginative detailing. $400/600

81. Early Fetish Novelty of Bell-Hop with Flowers

8” (20 cm.) The one-piece figure of Bell-Hop features very stylized pose of slender body, as though slightly bowing, face posed in profile with black bead eyes, auburn hair, stitched-on red felt uniform with black striping, cream felt

shoes and gloved hands, and holding a cornucopia of felt flowers, and with hanging loop. Condition: excellent. Marks: (Lenci silver foil tag). Comments: Lenci, early 1930s. Value Points: delightful whimsical novelty is perfectly preserved. $400/500

82. Felt Miniature Turk in Traditional Costume

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, blue side-glancing eyes, painted lashes, closed mouth with “O” shaped lips, jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing original black felt traditional costume with red edging, leggings, and distinctive cap. Condition: generally excellent. Marks: (partial original Lenci label). Comments: Lenci, 1930s. Value Points: well-preserved and hard to find doll from the miniature series. $300/400

83. Blonde “Merry Widow” with Glass Googly Eyes

20” (51 cm.) Felt swivel head, large wide-

81.

80.

open blue glass “flirty” eyes, long painted upper lashes, high brows, “O” shaped closed mouth, blonde mohair wig with long ringlet curls, felt body with tab jointing at shoulders, disc jointed hips. Wearing black taffeta gown in the 1875 style with box pleats, fringed edging and buttons, organdy petticoat and pantalets, socks, shoes, and black felt bonnet with lace veil and colorful felt flowers, and holding her white mohair Scottie dog. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (original cloth and paper labels). Comments: Italian, Lenci, circa 1935. The doll was inspired by the legendary story of the wealthy widow Sonia told in the 1934 MGM musical film “The Merry Widow” starring Jeannette MacDonald; the costume is nearly identical to that worn by the Widow.

Value Points: sought-after Lenci model with well-functioning flirty eyes, fresh crisp costume. $1200/1500

83. Hair detail

84. Wide-Eyed Floppy-Leg Miniature in Party Dress

8” (20 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, large round side-glancing brown eyes, accented nostrils, “O” shaped mouth, blushed cheeks, brunette side-parted wig, muslin torso and legs with “floppy” hip jointing, designed to allow the doll to sit easily, felt arms jointed at shoulders. Wearing white organdy dress with colorful red felt rick-rack edging and flowers, organdy petticoat and panties, socks, red felt shoes. Condition: Lenci (silver foil tag). Comments: Lenci, mid-1930s. Value Points: fine painting of face with rosy cheeks and eye shadows, charming costume. $400/500

85. Blonde-Haired Girl in Yellow Sweater, Series 300

17” (43 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes with white eye dots, painted brown lashes, accented nostrils, closed mouth with accent dots on lower lip, blonde mohair coiled braids, felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips, middle fingers joined. Wearing cream felt pleated skirt with matching sleeveless top, yellow knit V-neck sweater with two little pockets, socks, brown cobbled shoes. Condition: generally excellent, shoes scuffed. Comments: Lenci, circa 1928, Series 300, the model was introduced in 1927 along with a companion little boy in knit sweater. The pair were featured in a special advertising card by Lenci in that year and were offered in a wide variety of sweater and skirt colors. $700/900

86. Blonde Lenci Miniature Floppy-Leg Boy as Tennis Player

8” (20 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, blue side-glancing googly-like eyes, painted curly lashes, high comma brows, closed mouth with “O” shaped lips, blushed cheeks, blonde side-parted short hair, muslin body, tab jointed shoulders and hips which allow “floppy” legs. Wearing argyle felt orange and yellow sweater, white felt trousers, tennis cap and shoes, and carrying wooden tennis racquet. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Lenci, mid-1930s. Value Points: vibrant imaginative costume, including wooden accessory tennis racquet.

$300/400

87. Ceramic Figurine “The Flower Seller”

9” (23 cm.) One-piece ceramic figurine of young girl posed as though walking with her arms laden with the bouquets of flowers she offers, her head tilted down but her eyes painted as though shyly looking upward. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci Made in Italy 2-7-30. Comments: Lenci, the firm introduced their line of ceramic pieces beginning in 1929. This actual piece is shown in Lenci, The History and the Dolls by Nancy Lazenby, page 166. Value Points: rare piece with wonderful colorful designs and colors of the costume and flowers.

$400/500

85.

84.

86.

88. Blonde-Haired Girl in Traditional Costume with Rare Face Modeling, Series 310/114

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, blue downglancing eyes, painted lashes, blushed cheeks, closed mouth, blonde mohair wig, tag-jointed shoulders, jointed hips. Wearing folklore traditional costume featuring blue felt dress over white full sleeve dress, embroidered apron, petticoat, pantalets with blue felt trim, blue felt slipper, black felt cap with wide embroidered brim and large rose silk bow, carrying umbrella. Condition: excellent. Marks: (two Lenci paper labels including silver foil lettered

310/114, and tag which is hand lettered Sant. Galles). Comments: Lenci, circa 1936. Value Points: very rare face with unusual gentle expression for this model, variation in lip and eye painting. The actual doll is shown in Lenci, The History and the Dolls by Nancy Lazenby, page 134. $600/800

88.

87.

88. Face

89. Extremely Rare Black-Haired Japanese Character, Model 556

35 ½” (90 cm.) Felt swivel head with amber-tinted complexion, pressed facial features with strong cheekbones and impressed dimples, painted narrow brown side-glancing eyes, black painted side lashes and high curved brows, black upper eyeliner, accented nostrils, open mouth modeled in wide smile with row of painted teeth, coral lower lip with accent dots, black mohair wig arranged in high ponytail held by an applique felt band at the back crown, slender elongated muslin torso and upper legs, amber felt tab-jointed arms and seam jointed legs at hips and knees allowing seated, kneeling or standing pose, fingers of right hand arranged to hold saber. Wearing original costume of vividly embroidered and appliqued felt and including rich multi-layered detailing of sleeveless jacket, tunic, and wide sleeved shirt, and with original wooden sabre with Japanese lettering. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Lenci, the character appeared in the 1927/1928 Lenci catalog as model 556, named “Kigan”. Value Points: extremely rare Lenci from the early Asian series with superb modeling unique to this doll, outstanding detail of costume and accessories; few examples are known to exist. $5500/7500

Photograph from 1927/1928 Lenci catalog

90. Blonde Miniature Doll with Pink Felt Fashionable Costume and Unusual Face

7 ½” (19 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, large brown side-glancing eyes, grey eye shadow, painted curly lashes, accented nostrils, closed mouth with tiny rosebud lips, blonde mohair wig, slender felt arms and legs jointed at shoulders and hips. Wearing pink felt onebutton coat with pockets and extended-length cape collar edged in white diamond shape edging, white sleeveless shift dress, stiffened pink felt hat with applique flower accent, socks, pink felt shoes. Condition: Excellent. Comments: Lenci, early 1930s from the Miniature Series. Value Points: the

doll has rare variation face of Miniature with distinctive eye and lip shape, lovely fashionable costume.

$500/700

91. Blonde-Haired Girl in Pink Felt Dress, Series 70/22

10” (25 cm.) Felt swivel head with very full cheeks, brown painted side-glancing eyes, dark eyeliner, painted curly upper lashes, grey lower eyeshadow, single-stroke brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth with accented lower lips, blonde rooted hair with side part and coiled braid at back of head with pink felt bow, felt torso and limbs, tab jointed arms, jointed legs. Wearing bright pink dress with white and blue applique designs and collar, organdy slip and undergarments, socks, pink felt shoes. Condition: excellent, slight dustiness on collar. Marks: Lenci Di E Scavine Made in Italy (rectangular tag also lettered N. 22). Comments: Lenci, series 70, model 22, 1933. Value Points: especially artistic painting of face on the rarely found doll.

$700/900

92. Light Brown

Tousle-Haired Miniature with Rare Face, Model 35

8” (20 cm.) Felt doll with swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown side- glancing round eyes, pronounced grey eye shadow, painted lashes and upper eyeliner, lightly-feathered brows, closed mouth with tiny bow-shaped lips, rooted light brown tousled curly mohair wig, felt limbs jointed at shoulders and hips. Wearing aqua and coral felt one-piece suit with pockets and pearl buttons, aqua felt slippers. Condition: generally excellent, very light costume fading. Marks: Lenci (silver foil tag letters “35” on reverse). Comments: Lenci, mid-1930s. Value Points: rare facial painting for miniature series, especially artistic painting of eyes. $500/700

90.

91.

92.

93. Black-Haired Frowning Character Girl with Fancy

Pantalets, Series 1500/L

17 ½” (44 cm.) Felt swivel head, very plump cheeks and chin with pressed and painted facial features, narrow blue side-glancing eyes, dark upper eyeliner with curly lashes, single-stroke brows, rounded nose with accented nostrils, closed mouth with downcast lips, accented bottom lip, felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips, middle fingers joined, rooted black mohair wig. Wearing pink felt dress with grey felt bands and applique felt flowers, organdy petticoat with blue felt diamondpoint edging, matching pantalets with five tiered ruffles, pink felt slippers, cream felt bandanna with blue felt applique accents, and carrying carpet switch. Condition: generally excellent, few tiny moth holes on dress. Marks: Lenci (square tag, and rectangular tag indicating series 1500/L). Comments: Lenci, 1500/L model, was made for only four years, 1929-1933. Value Points: rare model with delightful details of pantalets and bandanna. $1200/1500

Photograph from 1929 Lenci catalog

94.

94. Brown-Eyed Miniature Boy in Sheepskin Vest, Model 310/7

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, large brown side-glancing googly-like eyes, painted curly upper lashes, closed mouth with “O” shaped lips, black felt skull cap, jointed felt arms and legs. Wearing brown felt shorts, yellow felt vest with very full mohair sheepskin fur trim, brown felt cap with felt floral corsage, brown felt sandals with ankle ties, carrying walking stick. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (silver foil tag lettered 310/7, and parchment heart-shaped tag). Comments: Lenci, the model appeared in the 1933 Lenci catalog. Value Points: very

fine state of preservation, rare costume with lavish accents.

$300/400

95. BlackHaired Miniature Girl in Traditional Tuscany Costume

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, large brown sideglancing googly eyes, painted curly upper lashes, singlestroke brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth with “O” shaped lips, muslin torso and hip-jointed legs, jointed felt arms, black felt skull cap with long felt braids. Wearing Tuscany felt folklore costume with applique flowers, apron, blue collar blouse, felt coiffe with coronet of colorful felt flowers. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (silver foil tag). Comments: Lenci, from the miniature series, mid-1930s. Value Points: vibrant fresh costume colors, colorful floral coiffe. $300/400

95.

96. Black-Haired Glass-Eyed Googly Girl “Fobello”

white blouse, red felt skirt, black apron with colorful wool panel embroidered to match her embroidered boots, multi-colored pom-poms and ribbons. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (silver foil lettered 11) also blue lettered Lenci cloth tag, and green outlined paper tag lettered “Fobello”. Comments: Lenci, late 1930s, from the very limited glass-eyed googly series introduced in 1937. Value Points: exceptionally fine condition of the rare doll with wonderful detail of coiffure and boots. $2000/2600

96. Boot detail

96. Profile

97. Brown-Haired Burgermeister, Series 1500

17” (43 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features with pronounced chubbiness of cheeks and chin, brown side-glancing eyes, painted upper lashes, one-stroke brows, accented nostrils of wide rounded nose, closed mouth with bow-shaped pursed lips, stitched-on brunette mohair wig, felt body with jointing at shoulders and hips, joined middle fingers. Wearing costume of prosperous burgermeister including red felt edged brown jacket and yellow vest, matching brown tricorn hat, green trousers, striped knit socks, black shoes. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Lenci, from the 1500 series, marketed as Grugnetto, this doll from the Garella epoch, late 1930s. Value Points: especially fine modeling with well-defined features. $800/1100

98. White Haired Burgermeister as Puppet, Series 335

12” (30 cm.) Felt head depicting a pompous gentleman, pressed facial features with very plump double chin, painted side-glancing small brown eyes, comma brows, large nose, small closed mouth with accented lower lip, white rooted hair in formal peruke manner, attached to red felt couglecollared coat with ruffled jabot which disguises hollow torso designed for use as hand puppet play, and with black tricorn hat, brown felt satchel, and carrying a riding crop. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (silver foil and cloth labels). Comments: Lenci, 1935, series 335, the same character was also made as an egg cozy (see #99) and in a larger size as tea cozy. Value Points: the stern-faced man is well-preserved, with original accessories and two original labels. $400/500

99. Pair, Wooden Head Egg Cozies in Colorful Felt

Costumes, Series 4000

4” (10 cm.) Each has wooden head with simply painted facial features attached to hollow costume with open bottom designed to slip over the shell of a soft-boiled egg for warmth. Wearing multi-layered felt costumes and caps, she with folklore style costume with elaborate appliques and glass-jeweled decorations on coiffe; and he as burgermeister with red flannel great coat, black tricorn hat and carrying brown satchel. Marks: Lenci (square label and rectangular tag labeled 4015). Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, from the novelty line, the egg cozies (identified as Copri Uova or Ouvre Oeufs) appeared as models 4012 and 4015 in the 1928 Lenci catalog. Value Points: pristine like new condition of the rarely-found objects from the accessory line. $400/500

100. Blonde-Haired Young Man in Brown Suit and Tricorn Hat, Series

80

14 ½” (36 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, blue side-glancing eyes, painted curly lashes and one-stroke brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth, blushed cheeks, stitched-on blonde mohair wig with

braided pigtail, felt arms and legs with jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing brown suit with beige piping and lace trim at cuffs and jabot, green felt vest, striped knit stockings, black felt shoes with silver buckles, brown felt tricorn hat with medallion. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (silver foil). Comments: Lenci, mid-1930s, series 80. Value Points: very fresh vibrant colors with the well-dress young aristocrat. $400/600

100.

98.

101. Blonde-Hair Frowning Boy in Sailor Costume, Series 1500

17” (43 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, very plump face with scowling expression, narrow brown painted side-glancing eyes, painted curly lashes, grey eye shadow, one-stroke brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth, felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips, mitten style hands with jointed fingers. Wearing navy blue felt sailor costume with pale blue cuffs and middy collar, socks, black shoes, and white sailor cap. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Lenci, late 1920s, series 1500. Value Points: wonderful expression and quality of felt and painting, rare costume. $800/1100

102. Brunette Character in Military Parade Costume, Model 100/23

17 ½” (44 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown slightly down-glancing eyes, pronounced grey lower eye shadow, thick brown painted lashes, accented nostrils, closed mouth, well-defined chin, rooted short brunette mohair wig, felt body with jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing black felt parade uniform with silver buttons, fringed epaulets, white braiding with red edging, white leather belt with holster for attached wooden sword, black leather shoes, and elaborate bicorn hat with medallion and feathers. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci Torino (silver label, with pencil script 100/23 on reverse side). Comments: Lenci, circa 1933, the classic 300 model was re-labeled as 100 series in that year by Lenci; this particular model is #23 from a series of dolls in military parade costumes that were shown in that year’s catalog. Value Points: pristine condition of the rare model with exceptional detail of costume. $3500/4500

1933 Lenci catalog

103. Black-Haired Cowboy with Silver

Studded Chaps, Series 80/23

13” (33 cm.) Felt swivel head with rounded face, pressed and painted facial features, large brown side-glancing eyes, curly upper and side lashes, single-stroke brows, grey eye shadow, closed mouth, accented lower lip, black rooted hair, felt body, tab-jointed shoulders, disc-jointed legs. Wearing beige felt shirt with brown cuffs, tan felt vest with red felt lining, brown felt pants with attached chaps heavily accented with silver studs, leather belt,

brown felt shoes, felt applique bandanna with gold ring, brown felt cowboy hat. Condition: excellent except some sparseness of hair at back of head. Comments: Lenci, 1933, model 80/23, the doll is wearing nearly identical costume to her earlier model named “Tom Mix” after the Hollywood silent film star. $1000/1400

104. Very Rare Native American Girl with Child in Bunting, Series 100/39

17” (43 cm.) Felt swivel head with sienna-brown complexion, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes, pronounced grey eye shadow, black brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth with two accent dots on bottom lip, black mohair wig in long ribbon-threaded braids, sienna-brown felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing tan felt dress with fringe and beading detail, brown trousers with spiral felt cords at the lower legs, checkered felt shoes, and with red felt scalloped-edge suspender at her back which supports a decorated wooden baby board and a brown felt baby in felt bunting which matches her shoes. Condition: very good/excellent, costume slightly dusty, few tiny moth holes on body. Comments: Lenci, model 100/39, the doll was shown in the 1933 catalog. Value Points: very rare model with outstanding costume and shoes, and including original baby and bunting. $2200/2700

105. Extremely Rare Native American Boy with Extraordinary Costume, Model 100/40

17” (43 cm.) Sienna-brown felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, small brown side-glancing eyes, painted curly lashes, brown lower eyeliner, black upper eyeliner and painted lashes, feathered brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth with pouty expression, black mohair wig with two narrow braids, siennabrown felt torso and limbs, middle fingers joined, jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing light brown trousers with inlay panels and scalloped edge chaps, matching slippers, matching headdress with elaborate feathering which extends to his feet at each side, felt and attached applique pouch. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (square paper label and cloth label). Comments: Lenci, model 100/40, the doll was presented in the 1933 Lenci catalog. Value Points: considered one of the rarest Lenci models, the doll is in impeccable condition, with superb detail of headdress and embroidered applique pouch. $4500/6500

1933 Lenci catalog

104. Back

104.

105.

106. Miniature Girl with Sunflowers, Series 310/15

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, large brown eyes, painted curly lashes, accented nostrils, “O” shaped closed mouth, black felt skullcap, muslin torso and jointed legs, felt jointed arms. Wearing traditional costume with colorful felt skirt under purple polka dot apron, organdy blouse, wide-brimmed yellow felt hat with embroidered flowers, bangle earrings, wooden cross, muslin petticoat and pantalets with red scalloped felt trim, black felt shoes, and carrying two bright sunflowers. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, series 310/15, the doll was shown in the 1933 Lenci catalog. Value Points: charming vibrant doll with brilliant hat and sunflowers. $300/400

107. Miniature Girl with Yellow Squash, Model 310/2

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, blue side-glancing eyes, painted upper lashes, accented nostrils, “O” closed mouth, muslin torso and jointed legs, felt jointed arms. Wearing dark green felt gown with very full sleeves, black lace-edged apron, green felt turban cap, gold bead earrings, black shoes, and carrying a large felt square with green stem. Condition: very good, few

small moth holes. Marks: Lenci (silver foil tag). Comments: Lenci, model 310/2, the doll was shown in the 1933 Lenci catalog. Value Points: charmingly guarding the big yellow squash, as she nervously peeks to the side. $400/500

108. Blonde Miniature as Dutch Girl with Cabbage, Model 64

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, blue side-glancing eyes, painted curly upper lashes, “O” shaped brows, single-stroke brows, blonde mohair stitched-on braids, muslin torso and jointed legs, jointed felt arms. Wearing green Dutch style costume with white cotton cap and apron, muslin petticoat and pantalets with red felt scalloped edge, wooden shoes,

107.

106. 108.

and carrying green and yellow cabbage. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (cloth tag and silver foil tag penciled Miniature 64). Comments: Lenci, mid-1930s. Value Points: especially fine facial features with shaded wide eyes. $300/400

109. Blonde-Haired Girl with Glass Googly Eyes, Model 250

19” (48 cm.) Felt swivel head, large brown glass “flirting” googly eyes, painted upper lashes, high comma brows, grey eye shadow, rounded nose with accent dots, wide “O” shaped closed mouth, blonde rooted side-parted hair with braids and braided top knot, muslin torso, felt arms and legs with tab jointing allowing seated pose. Wearing aqua and cream romper suit with unusual diaperstyle bottom, matching shoes and hair bows, bangle earrings, and carrying yellow mohair duckling with yellow felt beak and web feet. Condition: very good/excellent, some light spotting on shoes. Comments: Lenci, model 250, the doll was shown in the 1933 Lenci catalog. The unusual baby style costume and floppy legs appeared on the miniature doll of that era, too. Value Points: one of the rarest of the glass-eyed googly series, with very artistic painting of features and flirtatious glass eyes. $1200/1600

From the 1933 Lenci catalog

110. Miniature Soldier with Black Felt Uniform, Series 300/22

8” (20 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes, painted lashes, closed mouth, glazed lower lip, brunette mohair wig under stitchedon black felt bicorn hat with medallion trim, muslin body, felt arms. Wearing black felt uniform with silver buttons, red felt edging on tails of jacket, felt holster and wooden sword, felt shoes. Condition: very good, missing feathers on hat. Marks: Lenci (silver foil tag).

Comments: Lenci, early 1930s. Value Points: vibrant colors, with rare wooden accessory. $300/400

111. Italian Bersagliere Miniature Soldier, Series 300/21

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes, painted lashes, accented nostrils, “O” shaped mouth, short brown mohair sideparted hair, muslin torso, felt limbs, tabjointed shoulders, jointed hips. Wearing khaki green felt uniform of the Italian Bersagliere soldier with brass buttons on pockets, holster with wooden sabre, leatherette hat with voluminous drape of feathers and medallion, stockings, black leather shoes. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (paper label). Comments: Lenci, Miniature series,

300/21, 1933. Value Points: very fine state of preservation on the wonderfullydesigned miniature with rare hat. $400/500

112. Italian Bersagliere Miniature Soldier with Floppy Legs

8” (20 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, round brown downglancing eyes, painted lashes single-stroke brows, closed mouth, brunette mohair wig, muslin body, felt limbs with floppy legs. Wearing khaki green felt uniform of the Italian Bersagliere soldier with holster and wooden sabre, leatherette hat with feathers and medallion.

Condition: very good, slight fading. Marks: Lenci (paper tab). Comments: Lenci, from the miniature series with floppy legs. Value Points: excellent details of the hard to find costume. $300/400

111.

112.

110.

113. Miniature in Grey Uniform with Feathered Hat and Backpack, Model 300/20

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes, “O” shaped mouth, painted lashes, grey eye shadow, muslin torso, felt arms and legs with jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing grey/ green felt uniform with jodhpurs style pants, fitted jacket with lapels and brass buttons, epaulets, holster with pockets, grey felt backpack, leggings, brown leather cobbled shoes, felt Tyrolean style hat with feather. Condition: generally excellent. Marks: Lenci (silver foil tag). Comments: Lenci, model 300.20, the doll appeared in the 1933 catalog. Value Points: rarely found model with excellent details and accessories. $400/500

114. Black-Haired Character Boy with Hand-Painted Pipe, 300 Series

17” (43 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, small brown side-glancing eyes, black upper eyeliner, curly upper lashes, single-stroke brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth with hole for insertion of pipe stem, black rooted short hair, felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips, middle fingers joined. Wearing burlap tunic with embroidery and tan vest with applique and embroidery, light brown pants with brown and white fringed detail and silver beading, leather shoes, black felt wide-brimmed hat with colorful felt flowers, with carrying stick and wooden richly-colored mouth pipe. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, early 1930s, 300 series. Value Points: especially fine detail of hat decoration, fringed detail of pants, handpainted pipe. $700/900

115. Brunette Boy as Young Marquis in Brown Ensemble

17” (43 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes, dark eyeliner, painted lashes and brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth with coral painted lips, brunette weft-stitched hair, slender body, felt jointed arms and legs. Wearing dark brown double-breasted jacket, light brown cuffed trousers with fly-front, leather shoes, spats, white shirt, and carrying wooden walking stick (very worn cream top hat is included). Condition: good, some moth holes on costume, slight dustiness of doll. Comments: Lenci, late 1920s. Value Points: rare costume of the handsome faced lad. $500/700

116. Brown Felt Hound Dog in Amusing Pose, Model X 34

9” (23 cm.) Brown felt hound dog in amusing pose has white underbelly, open mouth with felt tongue, applique eyes, black felt nose, curvy tail, green felt collar with black polka dots. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (paper label 1934-1938, pencil lettered X34). Comments: Lenci, mid-1930s. Value Points: rare and wonderful amusing brown hound dog with cheerful side-glancing eyes. $400/500

117. Rare Brunette Miniature Boy as Chimney Sweep

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, large brown side-glancing eyes, painted curly lashes, single-stroke brows, accented nostrils, “O” shaped lips, brunette mohair wide-parted hair, muslin torso and jointed limbs, felt jointed arms. Wearing brown felt suit with fitted jacket and tiny buttons, red bandanna and hankie, black felt cap and shoes, carrying rope and metal picks. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci, from the miniature series, the chimney sweep is shown in Lenci, The History and the Dolls by Nancy Lazenby, page 129. Value Points: the unusual occupational model is very rare to find, and perfectly preserved. $400/500

118. Colorful Grasshopper from the Lenci Novelty Figures Series DA/06

6” (15 cm.) (including antennae). Firmly-stuffed dark green grasshopper with long brown felt covered armature legs and arms, wire antennae, green felt hanging loop, blue glass-like large eyes, and with stitched-on felt costume visible at the underbelly, carrying green hat. Condition: excellent, few moth holes on jacket tails. Marks: Lenci (cloth tag). Comments: Lenci, model DA/06, 1950s/1960, the model was inspired by the firm’s 1928 10” grasshopper which it

closely duplicates. Value Points: delightful and colorful character model. $300/400

119. Blonde-Haired Girl with Glass Googly Eyes in Scottish Costume

19” (48 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed facial features, blue glass “flirty” googly eyes, long painted curly lashes and short arched brows, accented nostrils, “O” shaped closed mouth, blonde stitched-on hair in elongated braid that is loosely coiled at the back of head, felt body and limbs, tab jointed arms, disc-jointed legs. Wearing fitted long jacket with soutache toggle closures, russet brown full skirt with brown, green and yellow applique strips, matching reticule, cotton hoop petticoat with cutwork felt border, matching pantalets, black felt shoes, green felt tam, and carrying white fluffy pup with black bead eyes. Condition: generally excellent. Marks: Lenci (silver foil and cloth labels). Comments: Lenci, mid/ late 1930s. Value Points: striking doll with lavishly arranged hair, complete with original accessories including pup. $1200/1600

118.

120. Miniature Boy in Costume of Sandrio Carrying Little Piglet, Model 310/94

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, large brown side-glancing eyes, grey eye shadow, comma brows, accented nostrils, long curly lashes, “O” closed mouth, muslin torso and jointed legs, jointed felt arms. Wearing white cotton shirt, green-edged red felt vest, black short pants, socks, black felt shoes, brown skull cap and holding a white flocked piglet which is stitched-on attached to his hand. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (silver foil lettered 310/94) (parchment label lettered “Sandrio”). Comments: Lenci, mid1930, in costume of Sandria in the Lombardy region of Italy. Value Points: rare miniature model with original labels, original attached piglet. $500/600

121. Miniature Red-Haired Girl with Wooden Piglet, Model 300/19

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, blue sideglancing eyes, painted upper lashes, “O” shaped closed mouth, red stitchedon bib, muslin torso and jointed legs, jointed felt arms. Wearing red felt dress with burgundy felt polka dots and patches, black cotton head scarf, muslin undergarments with scalloped yellow edging, wooden clogs with red bows, and

carrying wooden pink pig with blue polka dots. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (cloth and paper labels, paper label march Miniature 19). Comments: Lenci, mid-1930s. Value Points: vibrant well-preserved costume enhanced by colorful wooden piglet. $400/500

122. Miniature Boy with Pipe, Model 310/1

8 ½” (22 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, blue sideglancing eyes, painted curly lashes, mouth with hole for insertion of pipe, brown felt skullcap, muslin torso and jointed legs, jointed left arm. Wearing green felt jacket, maroon felt vest, white shirt, blue felt pants, leggings with pink edging, black shoes, black felt cap with braided cord, bangle earrings, and with wooden pipe. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (cloth tag). Comments: Lenci, model 310/1, the doll appeared in the 1933 Lenci catalog. Value Points: charming expression on the wide-eyed child, with pipe. $300/400

123. Miniature Girl in Brittany Costume with Goose, Model 310/41

8 ½” (22 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown sideglancing eyes, comma brows, painted curly lashes, “O” closed mouth, yellow felt wig with braids, muslin body and jointed legs, jointed felt arms. Wearing green felt gown with white apron, coral-edged pantalets, black felt shoes, and carrying yellow felt goose with orange beak. Condition: very good. Marks: Lenci (silver

foil tag ink lettered 310/41), mid-1930s. Value Points: the wideeyed expression girl is charmingly posed with the squawking goose.

$300/400

124. Novelty Wooden Doll with Hanging Loop

5” (13 cm.) Wooden head with painted hair and simple facial features, with attached costume in bridge green and red felt with applique flowers and head piece, and with attached tag labeled “Vulvania” and original hanging loop. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (silver foil tag). Comments: Lenci, similar objects, designed as hanging decorations were shown in the 1933 Lenci catalog. Value Points: well-preserved novelty with vivid colors, original label.

$300/400

125. Early Brown-Haired Chubby-Faced Character Girl, Series 178

19” (48 cm.) Felt swivel head with very rounded plump face and cheeks, pressed and painted facial features, large brown sideglancing eyes, black eyeliner with curly lashes, short comma brows high on forehead, rounded nose with accented nostrils, closed mouth with impressed dimples at sides of lips, defined tiny chin, weft-stitched brunette mohair wig, felt torso and limbs, jointing

at shoulders and hips. Wearing country style costume comprising white cotton peasant blouse, black vest with red felt edging and lacing closure, green felt skirt with red and white checkered band at the hem, twill petticoat and pantalets with yellow scalloped rick-rack at hem, socks, felt shoes. Condition: generally excellent, few moth holes in torso (under costume). Comments: Lenci, series 178, mid-1920s. Value Points: especially fine detail of facial modeling and painting of eyes on the rare model. $1200/1500

125.

124.

126. Miniature Girl in Folklore Costume, Model 10

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes, painted curly upper lashes, single-stroke brows, accented nostrils, “O” shaped closed mouth, blonde mohair braids, muslin torso and jointed legs, felt jointed arms. Wearing white organdy blouse with orange and blue rick-rack, orange felt skirt with appliques, pink and yellow coiffe with appliques, muslin pantalets with pink rick-rack, pale pink felt slippers. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (silver foil lettered 10). Comments: Lenci, mid-1930s. Value Points: colorful costume with imaginative appliques. $300/400

127. Miniature Boy with Stocking Cap and Wooden Pipe, Series 310/14

8 ½” (22 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, blue sideglancing eyes, painted curly upper lashes, “O” shaped mouth with drilled hole for pipe, muslin body and jointed legs, jointed felt arms. Wearing white muslin body, green felt pants, black shoes, red and burgundy woven sash, red felt toggle cap and with wooden pipe in mouth. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, the model appeared in the 1933 catalog as #310/14. Value Points: rare miniature model with unusual large wooden pipe. $300/400

128. Miniature Mozart in Romantic Era Costume

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown down-glancing eyes, painted curly lashes, single-stroke brows, large “O” shaped closed mouth, yellow felt glued-on periwig, muslin torso and jointed legs, jointed felt arms. Wearing aqua felt court jacket with lilac lining and trim, purple pants, organdy jacket, green felt shoes, tricorn hat. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, portrait doll of Mozart in classic costume, especially unusual crafting of wig, mid-1930s. Value Points: rare model with wonderful detail of costume and wig. $500/600

126.

127.

128.

129. Miniature Tyrolean Boy with Bouquet of Flowers, Model 300/3

8 ½” (22 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, large brown down-glancing eyes, painted curly lashes, accented nostrils, “O” shaped closed mouth, brunette stitched-on wig, muslin torso and jointed legs, jointed left arms. Wearing Tyrolean mountain costume comprising green felt jacket with brown trim, matching green cap with applique felt flowers, tan shorts, thick woven striped stockings, leather clog boots, felt suspenders, and carrying a bouquet of felt flowers. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (cloth and paper labels). Comments: Lenci, model 300/3, the model was shown in the 1933 Lenci catalog. Value Points: wonderful colorful details of flowers

and stockings on the hard-to-find model.

$400/500

129.1. Miniature Boy in Costume of Bolzano Tirol

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes, painted lashes, “O” shaped mouth with shaded lower lip, blonde felt stitched-on hair, muslin torso and jointed legs, jointed felt arms. Wearing brown felt trousers, white shirt, green felt vest with embroidered flower over red undervest, brown shorts, brown felt tall hat with white feather and felt flowers.

Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (silver foil tag) (parchment tag lettered “Bolzano Tirol”). Comments: Lenci, late 1930s, in traditional costume of the Italian Tyrolean region of Bolzano. Value Points: rareto-find model with wonderful detail of hat, original tags.

$400/500

129.

130. Ladybug Fetish with Floral Coronet and Hanging Loop

5 ½” (14 cm.) Black felt lady bug with stitched white mask face having tiny felt applique features, brown felt paws and ears, yellow stripes and red buttons on underbelly, floral coronet, red felt back with black dots, red felt loop. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, mid-1930s. Value Points: imaginative details include smiling face. $200/300

131. Black Felt Amusing Cat with Spiny Tail, Model X44

12” (30 cm.) Black felt cat with extended torso and white underbelly has S-curved tail with spiny-cut edge, defined toes, white face mask with whiskers, pink flower on nose, yellow and green felt eyes. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (white square label lettered X44).

Comments: Lenci, a series of amusing whimsical animals were shown in the Lenci 1933 catalog. Value Points: delightful creature with imaginative details. $400/500

132. Very Rare Blonde Character Boy as “Cortina” Hockey Player

14” (36 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, large blue side-glancing eyes, dark eye shadow, painted curly upper lashes, brows, blushed cheeks, closed mouth, rooted side-parted blonde mohair wig, felt arms and legs with disc-jointing at shoulders

132.

130. Back

and hips. Wearing ice hockey costume, comprising teal blue jersey sweater with embroidered sun and word “Cortina”, matching knit leggings, brown felt breeches with lacing fly-front, brown felt gloves, brown leather skates, and is carrying a hockey stick. Condition: excellent, one tiny moth hole in shirt. Marks: Lenci (square Bambola paper label ink lettered “Rita 190”).

Comments: Lenci, 1939. Value Points: in vibrant fresh colors of complexion and costume, the little boy wears original ice hockey costume from Cortina, the traditional winter sport city in the Italian Alps, and is very rare. Ex-Collection Puppenspielzeug Museum Davos. $1700/2200

133. Extremely Rare Italian

Character Doll “Kiki” from the Prosperity Series

14” (36 cm.) All cloth doll of unique production with smooth complexion, socket head with plump cheeks, painted brown upper-glancing large round eyes, painted long curly lashes, white eye dots, accented nostrils of rounded nose, “O” shaped mouth, rosy cheeks, bright blonde mohair wig with yellow organdy bow, five-piece smooth-finished cloth body with jointing at shoulders and hips, extended hands. Wearing yellow organdy dress with puffed sleeves, felt applique flowers and felt collar, yellow felt shoes. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (silver foil label).

Comments: Lenci, the model “Kiki” from the Prosperity series was made for one year only, 1936. Value Points: outstanding doll in superbly preserved condition of face, wig, body and costume; This doll appeared on the cover of Doll News, Fall 2006, and is shown in Lenci, The History and the Dolls by Nancy Lazenby, page 142 where it was described as “the rarest and most desirable Prosperity Baby”. $4500/6500

134. Blonde-Haired Character Boy in Pajamas, Model Lucy 47

14” (36 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, pale blue side-glancing eyes, grey eye shadow and curly upper lashes, closed mouth, rooted blonde mohair wig with center-part, felt limbs with jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing striped cotton pajamas under brown and tan felt bathrobe with pockets and wooden-button-tipped belt tie, brown quilted felt slippers, socks. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (black cloth and Bambola paper label hand-lettered “Lucy 47”). Comments: Lenci, circa 1939. Value Points: vibrant complexion, hair and costume of the charming fellow are well-preserved. $800/1100

135. Brown-Haired Miniature Girl in Stylish Costume with Hat Box, Series, 300/12

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes, long curly lashes, arched brows, “O” shaped mouth, stitched-on waistlength brunette mohair wig, muslin torso and jointed slender legs, jointed felt arms with modeled bent right elbow to hold hat box. Wearing green felt belted jacket and matching feathered tam, white shirt, green felt pleated skirt with applique stripes, socks, black felt shoes, undergarment, and carrying striped hat box. Condition: excellent, hat box a bit worn. Marks: Lenci (cloth and silver foil tag). Comments: Lenci, the model appeared in the 1933 Lenci catalog identified as Series 300/12. Value Points: rarely found miniature doll with wonderful costume. $400/500

136. Blonde-Haired Character Boy in Trench Coat with Tennis Racquet, Model Lucy 4

14” (36 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes, grey eye shadow and curly upper lashes, closed mouth, rooted blonde mohair wig with side part, felt-like flannel limbs with jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing green felt shorts and

matching bow tie, light brown shirt, russet brown trench coat and shoes, socks, and carrying wooden tennis racquet. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (cloth tag and Bambola paper label hand-lettered “Lucy 4”). Comments: Lenci, circa 1939. Value Points: perfectly preserved doll with artistic painting of face, perfect costume, wooden tennis racquet. $600/800

137. Blonde Character Girl, Rita (Lucia) Model, in Green Felt Costume with Ball

14” (36 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, blue sideglancing eyes, grey eye shadow, painted brown curly lashes, single-stroke brows, closed mouth with glazed lower lip, blonde mohair wig in side-coiled braids, felt arms and legs with disc jointing. Wearing green felt short jacket with bow tie over white shirt, green pleated skirt with applique cloverleaf, green felt cap, green felt shoes, undergarments, and carrying two-tone green felt ball. Condition: excellent, except small moth holes in ball and hat, hair a bit mussed. Marks: Lenci (white cloth label). Comments: Lenci, circa 1930. Value Points: rare model with unusual theme. $500/700

138. Blonde-Haired Character Girl with Jump Rope, Model

Lucy 45

14” (36 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, blue

side-glancing eyes, grey eye shadow and curly upper lashes, closed mouth, blushed cheeks, rooted blonde mohair wig with bangs and coiled side braids, felt limbs with jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing bright green felt dress with applique stripes, pouf sleeves, organdy slip and panties, socks, green felt shoes, and carrying wooden-handled jump rope. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (black cloth tag and Bambola paper label hand-lettered “Lucy 45”).

Comments: Lenci, circa 1939. Value Points: especially fine facial painting and cheek blush, perfect coiffure, vibrant costume. $600/800

137.

138.

139. Blonde-Haired Character Girl in Navy Blue Coat, Model Lucy 40

14” (36 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown sideand-upper-glancing eyes, long painted curly lashes, grey eye shadow, singlestroke brows, closed mouth, blonde mohair rooted wig, muslin torso, felt arms and legs with disc-jointing. Wearing navy blue felt coat with red cuffs and collar, matching cap and shoes, blue cotton dress, undergarment, socks. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (cloth and square Bambola tag hand lettered Lucy 40). Comments: Lenci, Lucy (Rita) model, 1939. Value Points: very fine state of preservation of the bright-eyed fashionable child. $700/900

140. BrownHaired Girl in Black PolkaDotted Dress, Rita (Lucy) Model

14” (36 cm.)

Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, large brown side-glancing eyes, painted upper curly lashes, singlestroke brows, closed mouth, stitched-on brunette mohair wig, felt torso and limbs, disc-jointed arms and legs. Wearing black felt dress with red and purple polka dot appliques, red scalloped

edge hem, organdy ruffled collar, red felt head band, organdy petticoat and panties, socks, black felt shoes. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, mid-1930s, the model was presented as Rita (or Lucy). Value Points: an exceptionally pretty face with very large eyes enhanced by dark eye shadow, crisp fresh state of preservation. $800/1100

141. Novelty Clown Purse with Rare Pan Face

10” (25 cm.) Felt head with pressed and painted facial features, painted brown eyes, painted lashes, grey eye shadow, closed mouth with wide smiling expression, painted teeth, attached to red felt purse with clown costume featuring blue feet, yellow felt collar and ruffled cuffs, striped jester cap, and red handle.

139.

140.

Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (silver foil tag). Comments: Lenci, late 1930s, the novelty accessory utilized the same model face as the character Pan doll. The purse is shown in Lenci, The History and the Dolls by Nancy Lazenby, page 159. Value Points: perfect state of preservation and vibrantly colorful. $400/500

142. Blonde-Haired Girl with Golf Club, Giuliana Model

19 ½” (50 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, blue side-glancing eyes, all-around brown eye shadow, painted curly upper lashes, closed mouth, fringed brows, blonde mohair wig with looped braids and ringlet curls at forehead and crown, felt body with jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing cream felt dress with red applique stripes and applied tiny flowers, red felt bodice, red felt shoes, cotton petticoat and panties with organdy ruffles, red hair bows, and carrying wooden golf club. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, “Giuliana” model, which replaced the 110 series in 1933. Value Points: especially fine state of presentation, beautifully coiffed wig, presented with original box. $1100/1500

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145. Three Postcards of Early Lenci Dolls

3 ½” (9 cm.) x 6”. Depicting boudoir lady from the salon series, Bellhop with floral bouquet, and Wolfgang and Constance Mozart portrait models. Excellent condition. Early 1930s. $100/200

143. Four Vintage Postcards of Lenci Dolls

3 ½” (9 cm.) x 6”. Various Lenci models in vibrant costumes are posed on matching grey backgrounds, some with accessories. The cards are from a series labeled “Bambole Lena”. Late 1920s. Excellent condition. $100/200

144. Amusing Character Depiction of Pan

12” (30 cm.) Of light brown felt with over-sized head, pressed facial features, inset narrow glass-like brown eyes hidden by long curly felt lashes, S-shaped black felt brows, tiny button nose, closed mouth with felt applique lips, one-piece body with curved arms, hoove-shaped feet, tail, large ears, and felt “hair” overall back of head, down his back and sides of legs, and holding a wooden staff sprinkled with flowers and a wooden Pan flute. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (brown cloth tag). Comments: Lenci, 1940s, the figure represents the mythological god Pan who ruled Arcadia, playing his distinctive pan pipes and chasing Nymphs. Value Points: perfectlypreserved and imaginatively-designed character. $600/900

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146. Felt Character Duck “Dewey” from Donald Duck Family

8” (20 cm.) White felt bodied duck posed standing with yellow-edged orange feet, white four-finger hands, yellow felt open beak with painted tongue, oval disc eyes. Wearing blue felt jacket and stitched-on blue and red brimmed cap. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci Torino (narrow white tag) Quo (parchment label on chest). Comments: Lenci, 1950s, from the Disney series characters, this being Dewey from Donald Duck family, Value Points: pristine bright colors of the popular cultural figure. $400/500

147. Red-Haired Impish Girl with Duckling, BC Series

12” (30 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown sideglancing eyes, painted curly upper lashes, single-stroke brows button nose with accented nostrils, closed mouth with impish smile, auburn stitched-on mohair wig, felt body with jointed arms and legs. Wearing navy blue felt dress with purple felt dots, knit vest, blue cotton fringed head scarf, white cotton petticoat and pantalets with red felt edging, socks, wooden clogs with red felt ties, and carrying yellow mohair duckling with orange felt beak and feet. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, BF series, Garella epoch, 1940s. Value Points: charming expression enhances by fire-red hair and duckling. $400/500

148. Brown-Haired Boy with Cigarette, BF Series

12” (30 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes, painted curly upper lashes, mouth with modeled hole for insertion of cigarette, brown cropped hair, felt body with jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing red and white checkered cotton shirt, blue pants, blue cap with wide brim, and cigarette in mouth. Condition: excellent except suspender straps worn. Comments: Lenci, BF series, Garella epoch, 1940s. Value Points: the urchin was likely influenced by the earlier Jackie Coogan doll based on the early film star. $400/500

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149. Glass-Eyed Googly as Novelty Purse

25” (64 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, blue glass “flirty” googly eyes, painted curly lashes, accented nostrils, wide “O” shaped mouth, black felt skull cap with intricately-designed border and extended loop for hanging on a person’s arm, hollow torso for use as purse with access from flap at the back side, felt arms and feet. Wearing black velvet dress with grey and beige trim, felt apron and market basket with applique designs, wooden heeled clog shoes. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (cloth tag). Comments: Lenci, late 1930s. Value Points: the luxury glass-eyed googly model is charmingly combined with the novelty utility object. $600/800

150. Rare Black-Complexioned Miniature in Native Costume

7” (18 cm.) Felt swivel head with rich black complexion, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes, “O” shaped mouth, black felt body with jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing faux-grass skirt, embroidered “grass” details on torso and legs, symbolic necklace, brass bangle earrings and bracelet and stitched-on black felt cap with faux-grass topknot and fringe, and with hanging loop at crown. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, from a series of loop-attached novelty figures shown in the 1933 Lenci catalog. Value Points: remarkably fine state of preservation of the rare miniature. $500/700

151. Blonde-Haired Floppy-Leg Miniature Girl in Romper

8” (20 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown upper-glancing eyes, curly lashes, “O” shaped mouth, stitched-on blonde mohair braids, muslin torso and floppy-jointed legs, jointed felt arms. Wearing red felt short jacket and cap with white scalloped edging, white felt button diaper-style shorts with red scalloped trim, red slippers. Condition: very good, some darkening of face. Comments: Lenci, 1930s. Value Points: seldom-found model with unusual costume depicting very young toddler. $200/300

152. Blonde-Haired Miniature Girl, Model 10, as Little Red Riding Hood

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown sideglancing eyes, painted curly upper lashes, short-stroke brows, accented nostrils, closed “O” shaped mouth, stitched-on blonde mohair braids, muslin body and jointed legs, jointed felt arms. Wearing cream felt dress with blue lattice banding,

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matching blue striped socks, black shoes, red felt hooded cape, and carrying felt basket of vegetables. Condition: excellent except moth holes on red cape. Marks: Lenci (cloth and silver foil tag lettered “Miniature 10”). Comments: Lenci, 1930s. Value Points: delightful depiction of the story book character. $300/400

153. Brunette-Haired Miniature Girl with Broom, Model 1

8 ½” (22 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown down-glancing eyes, painted curly lashes, single-stroke brows, “O” shaped mouth, brunette stitchedon wig with topknot braid and long curly braids at the sides, muslin torso and jointed legs, jointed felt arms. Wearing white felt dress with blue felt windowpane appliques, organdy petticoat and pantalets with blue felt scalloped rick-rack, socks, blue shoes, (white cotton apron with blue edging is included albeit stained) and carrying broom. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (cloth and silver foil label lettered “Miniature 1”). Comments: Lenci, early 1930s. Value Points: wonderful hair style on the early model.

$200/300

154. Brunette Miniature Girl with Jump Rope

8 ½” (22 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown down-glancing eyes, painted curly lashes, single-stroke brows, “O” shaped mouth, brunette stitchedon wig with topknot braid and long curly braids at the sides, muslin torso and jointed legs, jointed felt arms. Wearing white felt dress with red felt windowpane appliques, organdy petticoat and pantalets with red felt scalloped rick-rack, socks, red shoes, and carrying jump rope. Condition: good, some dustiness of doll. Comments: Lenci, early 1930s, interesting variation of #153. Value Points: charming miniature playful doll with jump rope. $300/400

155. Black-Haired Miniature Toreador

9” (23 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes, painted curly lashes, “O” shaped mouth, black mohair stitched-on wig with long braid, muslin torso and jointed legs, jointed felt arms. Wearing red felt toreador costume comprising short pants with wrapped sash, fitted vest, bolero jacket, and cape with black felt upper layer edged in gilt metallic, with black felt hat having pom-pom accents, black felt shoes and gold bangle earrings. Condition: excellent, some fading. Comments: Lenci, from the Miniature series, early 1930s. Value Points: well-detailed construction of the complicated costume. $300/400

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155.1. Blonde-Haired New-Look Girl from Giuliana Series

19 ½” (50 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, pale blue side-glancing eyes with decorative glaze, painted lashes, feathered brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth, blonde stitched-on wig with bangs and long braids, felt torso and limbs, jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing black satin pinafore dress with multi-tiered ruffled organdy sleeves, and collar, green scalloped edging on skirt, felt floral applique on skirt front, organdy slip and panties, socks, red felt shoes, red felt hat and bows. Condition: excellent. Comments: Lenci, from the series of “new look” dolls introduced in the 1933 catalog, this doll from the series named Giuliana; an identical costume was created for their

Gherda 130 series of the same era. Value Points: very dear shy expression is contrasted by vibrant design and color of the costume. $600/900

156. Character Hand Puppet as Toreador, Series 335/5

12” (30 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, rounded brown downglancing eyes, painted upper lashes, dash brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth, stitchedon sizable ears with one bangle earring, stitched-on black skull cap, head attached to hollow costume and arms, designed for use as hand puppet. Wearing red felt jacket with yellow zigzag applique, six buttons, and holding red felt cap and wooden sword. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (cloth and paper labels). Comments: Lenci, from a series of hand puppets appearing in the 1933 catalog, this identified as “335/5”. Value Points: well-preserved novelty with accessories. $200/300

157. Character-Faced Becassine as Hand Puppet, Series 335/13

10” (25 cm.) (excluding apron). Felt swivel head, pressed and painted caricature-like features, round blue down-glancing startled eyes, painted 3/4 round curly lashes, tiny curved brows, round nose with accented nostrils, closed mouth with wide lips, stitched-on black skull cap, the head attached to hollow costume and arms designed for use as hand puppet. Condition: very good, few moth holes in costume. Comments: Lenci, series 335/13 from a series of hand puppets shown in the 1933 catalog, the model is likely intended to represent the popular French storybook character Becassine. Value Points: unique painting of face enhances the characterization, original costume. $200/300

158. Blonde-Haired Miniature Girl in Green Overalls

8” (20 cm.) Felt swivel head with pressed and painted facial features, large blue downglancing round eyes, “O” shaped mouth, blonde stitched-on wig with long braids, felt body

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with jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing pink and white checkered shirt and green felt trousers with pink buttons, green felt sandals, white felt hat. Condition: excellent.

Comments: Lenci, 1930s. Value Points: unusual costume of young garden-themed girl. $300/400

159. Blonde-Haired Girl with Hat Box, BC/27

12” (30 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, round blue eyes, painted lashes, tiny closed mouth, blonde flossed hair with arranged curls, felt body with jointed arms and legs. Wearing matching costume to the following lot #160 with variation is decorated hat box and green felt shoes. Condition: excellent.

Comments: Lenci, model BC/27, 1940s. Value Points: the model, known as La Modestina was a well-deserved tribute to the felt hat makers of Turin who were formative in the creation and design of the Lenci doll. $400/500

160. RedHaired Painted Eye Googly Character Girl, Model BL/59

19” (48 cm.) Felt swivel head, large blue sideglancing painted googly eyes, dark eyeliner with painted curly short lashes, rounded nose

with accent dots, “O” closed mouth with pink shaded lower lip, weft-stitched red mohair curls, felt body with jointed arms and legs, starfish-shaped hands. Costume: vibrant felt dress with green bodice, pink/green/tan and brown checkered skirt with scalloped pink edging, organdy multi-tiered sleeves, organdy hooped petticoat with pink edging, pantalets with green and pink edging on four tiers of ruffles, socks, black felt shoes, yellow felt sunbonnet with brown streamers and a garland of colorful flowers, and carrying green cardboard hat box labeled “Amore”. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (square label). Comments: Lenci, 1940s era of their beloved googly model, this example known as La Modestina, a tribute to the woman hat makers of Turin during the 1920s/1930s. Value Points: wonderful model with artistic painting and brilliant costume. $1400/1600

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161. Brown-Haired Girl “Ninetta” in Costume of Lapland

19” (48 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, deeply-set brown side-glancing eyes, painted lashes, closed mouth,

stitched-on brown mohair wig, muslin torso and jointed legs, felt jointed arms, wearing cream thickly-woven canvas-like long dress with felt insets and borders, attached apron, elaborate coiffure of red felt with blue and yellow edging, cotton petticoat and pantalets with red scalloped edging, and carrying hand-painted wooden spoon. Condition: doll excellent, costume has some worn felt trim, few spots on gown. Marks: Lenci (bambola label) Lappone (paper label). Comments: Lenci, 1940s, doll is wearing traditional costume of Lapland. Value Points: rarely found doll, the Bambola label is also red ink-lettered “Ninetta 4/12” and may indicate a limited production of this doll. $400/500

162. Brown-Haired Girl in Costume of Italian Aosta Valley

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cotton petticoat and pantalets, black shoes, black taffeta apron with lace edging. Condition: excellent. Marks: Lenci (cloth and silver foil tags) Gressoney (paper label). Comments: Lenci, late 1930s, the doll is wearing traditional costume of Gressoney in the Aosta Valley of Italy. Value Points: especially charming bow-trimmed bonnet. $400/500

163. Black-Haired Girl in Costume of Sardinia, Rita Model 30

14” (36 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes, grey eye shadow, curly upper lashes, accented nostrils, closed mouth, black stitched-on hair arranged in elaborately-braided coiffure, felt body with jointed limbs, middle-fingers joined together. Wearing orange and brown traditional costume with embroidered roosters, fitted jacket with yellow edging, black fringed shawl, cotton petticoat and pantalets with scalloped yellow felt edging, brown felt shoes, and carrying woven basket with wooden spoon. Condition: excellent. Marks: Sardegna (paper label). Comments: Lenci, Rita model #30 in traditional costume of Sardinia, the doll was shown in the 1933 Lenci catalog. Value Points: fine detail of rooster embroidery. $400/500

164. Brown-Haired “Laura” in Folklore Costume, Model 27

17” (43 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes with enhancing glaze, painted upper curly lashes, grey eye shadow, single-stroke brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth, light brown stitched-on wig with long braid at the back, flannel/felt torso and jointed legs, felt jointed arms. Wearing green felt folklore dress with brown banding and cuffs, inset felt yoke cotton cap, cotton petticoat and pantalets with green felt edging, organdy apron, gold beads, wooden clogs, and carrying woven basket of colorful felt vegetables. Condition: excellent, one small hole in apron. Marks: Lenci (white cloth label and square Bambola label with handlettered name on reverse (illegible). Comments: Lenci, the

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165. Brown-Haired Girl in Flowered Felt Dress

17” (43 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes, curly upper lashes, grey eye shadow, brunette stitched-on wig, closed mouth with downcast expression, felt body with jointing at shoulders and hips. Wearing cream felt dress with applique designs of felt flowers, organdy ruffled petticoat and pantalets, yellow felt bonnet with pink lining and streamers, cream felt shoes. Condition: good, both doll and costume are brushed. Comments: Lenci, early 1930s. Value Points: dainty detail of costume. $400/500

166. Brown Haired Frowning Character Girl, Series 1500

17” (43 cm.) Felt swivel head with very plump cheeks, pressed and painted facial features, narrow brown sideglancing eyes, painted curly lashes feathered brows, accented nostrils, closed mouth with accented lower lip, weft-stitched brunette mohair wig with tiny braids and coiled topknot braid, pierced ears with bangle earrings, felt body with jointed arms and legs. Wearing felt checkered blue/pink and cream dress, cotton petticoat and panties, socks, blue felt shoes, white cotton apron. Condition: doll is good albeit felt rubbed, costume is fair/ good with some moth holes, shoes worn. Comments: Lenci, 1500 series, early 1930s. Value Points: the petulant expression is nicely framed by unusual coiffure. $500/700

167. Black-Haired Girl in Traditional Costume, Rita Model #23

14” (36 cm.) Felt swivel head, pressed and painted facial features, brown side-glancing eyes, painted curly upper lashes, grey eye shadow, stitched-on black mohair wig with braided chignon, felt body with jointing at

shoulders and hips, middle fingers joined. Wearing pink felt gown with lavender lacing at bodice, white organdy apron with embroidered flowers, cotton petticoat and pantalets with pink edging, black felt shoes, beaded necklace and gold hair pins. Condition: excellent.

Comments: Lenci, Rita model #23, shown in 1933 Lenci catalog. Value Points: pristine condition from the traditional costume series, rare coiffure. $400/500

168. Eleven Vintage Postcards of Lenci Dolls

3 ½” (9 cm.) x 6”. Depicting various childhood scenes with an assortment of Lenci dolls in playful scenes. Each card has three to ten dolls shown, along with early postcard of Dutch boy and girl, as shown in catalog illustration, and illustration of Josephine Baker in banana dance. Very good/excellent condition. Late 1920s/early 1930s. $300/400

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LENCI, THE EARLY YEARS

By Florence Theriault

Here’s a trend that holds true across all categories of doll collecting. The early years of a dollmaker’s work are often overlooked. Instead, it’s the golden years of a particular doll that are most sought by the novice collector, the period when the doll artist or firm has achieved excellent quality control, both in materials and in production. And so it is with the Lenci doll, because it is her fashionable, colorful and wonderful child dolls from the 19291935 era that are most sought today, while important and extremely rare dolls from the 1919-1925 era are often overlooked.

That is a pity, for the dolls of these early years have other important values. They clearly project the dollmaker’s artistic vision. They are more visionary, more experimental, not at all hesitant about being different. And since the background of the dollmaker is often artistic or intellectual, rather than profit-making, the hard facts

of business have not yet impacted their work. Three early 20th century women whose dollmaking years began this way were Kathe Kruse, Sasha Morgenthaler and Elena di Scavini. It is the early dolls of Elena di Scavini that are shown in this article.

In the post WWI years, as Scavini cast about for a life purpose, she rambled into the making of dolls. To this end, she remembered her own favorite childhood doll of rags and wood, of which she said, “My doll was nothing and therefore she could become anything”.  After her initial experiments in making a doll of canvas, she realized that she wanted a fabric that could be molded. Felt, of course! Just like a hat, and so it was a hat factory she turned to for the production of a thin felt fabric that could be pressed onto a mold. Thus, the firm was born.

While 1919 and 1920 were the first years of production, and it is true that the quality

Right: At 27”, the rare female variation of the popular Pierrot doll, inspired by Madame di Scavini’s fascination with Commedia dell Arte, featured a unique face and carried a guitar rather than the traditional mandolin.

Right: At age 15, Elena di Scavini ran away and joined the circus for a year. The ambience of the circus influenced and inspired her throughout her creative years as a doll designer, seen here in the 21” earliest period 1920 clown with uniquely modeled face for this doll only.

Above: Josephine Baker, who was a personal friend of Elena di Scavini, was presented in 1927 by Lenci wearing the traditional banana costume from her legendary Parisian dance, 18”.

Left: “Bombita” was the name of 1920s era legendary bullfighters Emilio and Ricardo Torres. Lenci celebrated their matador fame in her 1925 doll, actually labelling the doll “Bombita” in her catalog, one of few examples in which the celebrity was actually named.

Middle: The scandalous performance of the seductress Salome was presented by Lenci in the first year production of her dolls, 1919/1920. It appears to have been made for one year only and was constructed with unique (and expensive to construct) swivel waist, the better to portray the dance contortions. The 16” doll is extremely rare.

Right: Standing 23”, the stern-faced red-haired man represents a character from the elite cavalry guard of the Russian Cossacks, and dates prior to 1923. It is likely that the prominence of the Cossack during the political upheaval in Russia, 1917-1922, inspired Elena di Scavini’s creation of the doll.

of the felt was less refined than that of the golden years of the late 1920s, it is also true that the dolls from this era overcame that impediment through sheer force of characterization. This was the era of celebrity doll, of winking or sulky characters, of theatrical mainstays from Commedia dell’arte or circus figures that hinted back to Elena’s own teen-age years in the circus. Her studies in photography surely inspired a fascination

with Hollywood silent film stars of which the most notable she created was Valentino as The Sheik. But there was also Josephine Baker, Tom Mix, Jim (Gene) Tunney and Jackie Coogan, who were specially named in the Lenci catalog, and others whose characterization was vaguely suggested such as Marlene Dietrich and Raquel Meller.

One particular character serves as example.

This was Jim (Gene) Tunney who held the world heavyweight title from 1926 to 1928. In 1926 the Lenci firm presented a doll “178/A Tunney” in boxing costume. It appears to have been offered under that name for only one year, so it is intriguing to wonder if licensing issues occurred, as often happened during these early days of the licensing industry. Interestingly, three years later, another doll appeared in exactly the same costume, described simply as “1005 Boxer”, and then in 1931, once again in a tiny 6 ½” size as “Series XX/6”.

Since the mid-1800s, Europeans had been fascinated with the “Wild West” of the United States. When Hollywood’s silent films rolled around, this fascination was heightened, so it was no surprise that among the very first group of dolls offered by Elena Scavini in 1919/1920 there were the “#6 Cow Boy” and “#1 Chef Indien”. Soon after appeared Tom Mix who had starred in American Western silent films from 1909 onward and was known to be admired by Madame Lenci, as evidenced by her 1926 doll “178 Tom Mix”.

The early dolls of Elena Scavini and the Lenci firm offer great opportunity for collectors seeking to connect their dolls with historical and cultural changes. Did the famous Salome doll of Lenci represent a particular

Left: Appearing among the dolls in the early Lenci Asian series was 23” “Hu Sun”, so-named in the 1924 Lenci catalog, and with body designed to allow her to kneel, sit or stand. She was exquisitely costumed with embroidered costume and carries her original carved and painted wooden opium pipe.

Above: “Fukuruko”, Lenci’s interpretation of the Fukurokuju, the Japanese god of longevity, was traditionally presented with his unusual elongated forehead and wearing the garments of a Chinese scholar. Presented in the 1924 catalog, the doll is considered extremely rare, especially in this choice condition.

performer or merely the role itself? Did the scandalous rumors surrounding the Salome performance enhance the sale of the doll or destroy it, since the doll is extremely rare and appears to have been made for a very short time only? What is the complete background of the extraordinary exhibitionsize Asian dolls? And what about the rare early portrait of a Russian Cossack which does not appear in any Lenci catalog or ad, but whose head construction indicates production pre-1923? The historically elite cavalry guard Russian Cossacks had figured prominently in the political upheaval in

Left: The 29” pair of exuberantly costumed harlequininspired dolls were first shown in a 1924 photograph of a Lenci exhibition in Paris entitled “Carnaval de Venise”. In 1925 the pair were offered in the Lenci catalog as models 193 and 194. They are very rare to find.

Top: At a tiny 7 ½ “, from the miniature series of Lenci, the doll is believed to represent the child silent film star Jackie Coogan.

Bottom: Lenci’s fascination with the American Wild West began with her earliest “Cow Boy”, continued with the soonthereafter Tom Mix doll, and even extended into the late 1920s with this smaller model which wears nearly identical costume to the named Tom Mix doll.

Russia 1917-1922 and it is likely, but not certain, they inspired Elena Scavini’s model. Nor is it known if the doll was designed as a portrait model of a specific hero. And so the questions go on and on.

The dolls presented in this article, and featured in the upcoming Theriault’s Marquis auction “Lenci Art” are from the private collection of Elaine Romberg, who astutely studied and sought these early examples, appreciating not only their beauty and rarity, but also their importance in the Lenci story. x