Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt: Handmade Marionettes.... (Total: 2 Items)

Description

The extended description below was supplied by the consignor. We are making it available to our web bidders who are interested in more in-depth research and broader historical perspective. Please note that presentation (i.e. framing), lot divisions, and interpretations of condition and content may occasionally differ from our descriptions. Assertions of fact and subjective observations contained in this description represent the opinion of the consignor. These remarks have not been checked for accuracy by Heritage Auctions, and we assume no responsibility for their accuracy; they are offered purely to allow the bidder insight into the way the consignor has viewed the item(s) in question. No right of return or claim of lack of authenticity or provenance based upon this extended description will be granted.

A truly wondrous piece and part of American history! Portrait Puppets of Eleanor and Franklin D. Roosevelt, crafted by the hands of Mabel and Les Beaton of Rye, New York, Circa 1940. These two folk art exemplars of FDR and ER puppets are exceptional renditions of two of the twentieth century's most beloved and important persons. These magnificent portrait puppets were made by the highly esteemed partners Mabel and Les Beaton, professional puppeteers and makers, both highly respected in their craft and the authors of Marionettes: A Hobby for Everyone, which was published in 1947. Over the years countless professional and nonprofessional puppeteers have developed their skills with this book and still go back to it, time and time again, referring to it as "the Beaton Bible." Mabel Beaton received the prestigious and highly prized Latshaw Award from the Puppeteers of America. The sensitively rendered heads of FDR and ER, painted by Les Beaton, with artist oils, exude life and were cast, not carved. Both the FDR and ER puppets have two-part torso and flexible waist sections. All parts are cast wood dough or carved wood with tongue and groove knee and ankle joints. They are strung from a standard wood airplane control having removable leg bars. These works, each with remarkable presence stand at two feet tall. An incredible, original, and rare example of period puppetry featuring both FDR and ER portrait puppets, a magnificent and historic item.