Lot 734
Chinese Ivory Doctor's Doll. Early 20th century. Length of figure: 9½", length of stand: 11". Carved figure of a woman holding a rose reclines on a rosewood finished couch. The black paint over the figure's hair has flaked away and the ivory has yellowed somewhat, particularly on the portions of the figure in contact with the wood. Scattered areas on the stand where the finish has flaked away would be easily retouched. Very good to fine condition.
Doctor dolls were used in China, and in Chinese settlements across the world, until recently. A woman, either modest or forbidden to show her body to anyone, would use the doll to indicate where there were physical problems. The doctor then made a diagnosis or prescribed traditional medicine without examining the patient, thereby protecting her modesty and honor.
Estimated Value $250 - 350.
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| Realized $564 |
