Antique 10" Skookum Doll - Mary Francis Woods

ca 1910-1920

10" Skookum Doll - female

Mary Frances Woods Native American Indian dolls are highly collectible, artisanal "portrait" art dolls handcrafted primarily between the 1910s and 1920s. Originating out of Portland, Oregon, Woods' intricate creations are often classified alongside Skookum dolls but are highly distinct due to their completely handmade, unique character traits. Crepe Paper Faces: Unlike mass-produced composition or plastic dolls, Woods molded her doll faces out of light brown crepe paper over plaster. The natural, fine crinkles of the crepe paper perfectly mimicked the weathered texture of real skin.  Every single doll face was individually sculpted and hand-painted with oils, giving each doll its own specific expression and "portrait" personality. They typically feature tiny black glass beads or stick-pins for eyes, black mohair wigs, and a cylindrical armature straw body. Earlier versions feature a solid, tubular base with no feet, while later models transitioned to having wooden feet or disks so they could stand upright. Some authentic pieces bear "MF Woods" embossed on the bottom of the feet.