Male painted paper mache ventriloquist doll comprised of a painted mache head, painted wooden hands and body, cloth and stuffed stocking arms, legs and torso, glass eyes and leather shoes. Attired in a contemporary blue suit and shirt with white bow tie. 35 1/4" L. Late 19th century. Oral family history: This doll was owned and used by John O. Chamberlain (called "J.O.") in his Minstrel / Vaudeville acts during the late 19th century. After retiring from perfoming, he married and became a farmer in Powell, Tennessee. At his farm he would occasionally sell tickets for shows and dinner which would attract the African American members of the community. J.O. Chamberlain passed away in the early 1960s. He was the consignor's grandfather. Condition: Hole to left side of chin. General minor wear and losses to wood. Contemporary clothing. Condition: Hole to left side of chin. General minor wear and losses to wood. Contemporary clothing.