A vintage doll created by doll artist Suzanne Gibson, made by Reeves International, and purchased from the Smithsonian Institution National Museum of American History, in Washington, D.C. in 1985. The Smithsonian commissioned the artist to create the dolls to replicate their First Ladies collection of gowns owned by U.S. Presidents' wives. The artist has signed in two places the documentation sold with the doll. The artist was present during a special promotion at the Museum to introduce the First Ladies doll series to the public. The invitation to the show was signed by the artist and is included with the doll. The show was held on Saturday, July 6, 1985. Also included with the doll is a pamphlet, "First Ladies, Smithsonian Institution, Suzanne Gibson," which illustrated the four First Ladies dolls in the first collection, and this was also signed by the artist on the picture of the Mary Todd Lincoln on sale doll. (See photos.) The First Ladies gowns were based on the Smithsonian's collection of dresses of the First Ladies, exhibited in the American History Museum.
The doll is in the original box and comes with all the original clothing and accessories sold with the doll. I am also including the Smithsonian catalog that listed the dolls when they were for sale (page 37). The dolls were sold in and around 1985.
The doll and her clothing are in excellent condition and she has lived in her box continuously since purchase. The elastic in her hooped petticoat has lost some of its elasticity due to the passage of time only, but the clothing is otherwise in excellent condition. This doll was not played with. The celophane over the box opening was torn during a move when the packers placed other items on top of the box. The celophane was taped in place to protect the doll, and she was kept in her box in a cabinet with glass doors (smoke-free home). Please review the photographs very carefully and if you have any questions I am happy to respond. I have included a doll stand with the doll, in case you wish to stand and display her.
Shipping to U. S. only. I do not accept returns, but am happy to answer all questions about the item. Thank you for your interest.
Product code: Mary Todd Lincoln doll by Suzanne Gibson, First Ladies series. Signed on sale by the artist.