Old West & Native American Auction
Lot 1007:
Description
Pre-WWI Skookum Doll
This is a Skookum doll which was a Native American-themed doll sold as a souvenir in the early 20th century. Not Indian made, they were designed and created by a non-Indian woman- Mary Dwyer McAboy, and were quickly mass produced by her company Skookum. Initially created as apple-head doll, dressed in Indian costumes, they achieved rapid commercial success. This particular doll, is one of the earlier examples and dates likely between 1913 and 1918. The earliest dolls had moccasins made of leather of which they are not present on this example. This doll is of a mother carrying her child. Around her neck is a string of beads and the hair is braided and looks to be made of string. She is wrapped in a green to brown blanket whose edges are whipped stitched. The facial features are quite distinct, and the heads move about freely. Dimensions: 11” tall x 3.5:” wide x 2” deep. See photos.
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