Antique Armand Marseille "ELLAR" Black Character Bisque Dream Baby Doll — circa 1900–1925

Up for sale is a genuine antique Armand Marseille ethnic character baby doll, model ELLAR (African/Black version), marked on the back of the neck with the incised Armand Marseille trademark: A ⭐(ELLAR) M / Germany / 4/0K.

About the maker:
Armand Marseille was one of the largest and most prolific German bisque doll head manufacturers, based in Koppelsdorf, Thuringia, Germany, from 1885. The ELLAR model was produced in several ethnic variations, including Oriental and African/Black character babies. These ethnic character dolls are increasingly sought after by collectors.

Specifications:

• Height: 22 cm (8½ inches)

• Width: 10 cm (4 inches)

• Head: Bisque (unglazed porcelain) socket head, dark ethnic complexion, incised mark

• Body: 5-piece bent-limb composition body, jointed at neck, shoulders, and hips

• Eyes: Sleeping (open/close) dark glass eyes — original and in working order

• Hair: Molded and painted black hair

• Mouth: Closed, painted red lips with small white upper teeth

• Costume: Original yellow long-sleeved top, tan sleeveless smock/vest, yellow cropped pants with pink patterned woven trim cuffs, woven straw backpack with braided drawstring cord

Condition:
Good antique condition. The bisque head is intact — no chips or cracks. There is a small area of paint loss on one ear (visible in photos). Minor surface dirt and fine scuffs on the face consistent with age. Composition body shows general surface wear, edge wear around joints, and paint chipping at the feet and toes exposing lighter base material — all age-appropriate. Sleeping glass eyes are original and functional. Costume shows light fading, minor fraying on trim, and light soiling. Please examine all photos carefully.

Authenticity:
This is an authentic antique doll, not a reproduction. The mark is incised into the bisque (not stamped or painted). The bisque surface is matte — correct for antique German bisque. The "Germany" country mark is consistent with pre-1930s production. All materials, construction, and costume are period-appropriate.

What you see is what you get. Please review all photos carefully as they are part of the description. Feel free to ask questions before bidding or buying.

Shipping & Returns:

• Carefully packed with protective wrapping for safe transit

• International shipping with tracking and insurance

• Combined shipping available — request a total before paying

• Returns accepted within 30 days (item must be returned in original condition)