Halle Blakeley OOAK Clay Bisque Doll Serena NIADA Charter Member Museum Quality

  

Oh my, it's sweet Serena. Standing an impressive 26" tall, this one-of-a-kind "OOAK Serena doll by world renowned doll artist and NIADA charter member, HALLE BLAKELEY, will steal your heart! Serena is a breathtaking Victorian style doll created by "Halle" in 1951. Serena features a cloth body with high-fired clay head/shoulder plate, and arms/hands.

This charming woman is depicted with bisque floral accents in her sculpted auburn ringlets. This doll's hand-painted facial features are replete with realism, as Halle encapsulated emotional depth through this Victorian maiden's serene expression. Halle captured a moment of hopeful contemplation. Serena's ethereal nature further resonates with Halle's addition of multiple butterflies to her astonishing OOAK creation.

The maiden reaches for a butterfly, a classic symbol of change and transformation, which seemingly aligns with her own emotional journey. Serena's mysterious smile and endearing cobalt gaze are pregnant with clandestine knowledge that viewers are challenged to unravel. Serena also dons a stunning costume that was personally designed and handmade by Halle. Serena's sumptuous gown is composed of multiple layers of chiffon and silk trimmed with antique French lace.

A breathtaking floral outfit for only the most regal of women! Serena is wearing unique pink bisque slippers. She also includes an original wood stand that was signed and dated by Halle. This incredible work of art is also incised "Halle" on her back.

EXCELLENT, preowned condition with scattered chips to one butterfly and a few flower petals (please see photographs). These discreet imperfections do not distract from Serena's beauty! Her exquisite ensemble is free of any cosmetic damage or odors. Halle Blakeley was a Charter Member in 1963 of the prestigious National Institute of American Doll Artists or NIADA. She was inclined to craft historical figures with elaborate costuming. "Portrait Figures in Miniature; The Carol Churchill Pierson Children's Gallery" book states that Halle's dolls are one of a kind, created in her favorite medium of high-fired clay. Her special finish produced a warm, lifelike appearance, accentuated by Blakeley's delicate, hand-painted facial expressions. Doll making began for Halle in 1941 after a period of recuperation from a long illness.

At the suggestion of her doctor, she adopted a hobby that was to make her famous. Halle's artistic training in oil portraiture, fashion sketches, and professional illustrati ons led naturally to her decision to make and costume dolls. Halle's dolls are still known for their elaborate costumes, which she designed and sewed after thorough research.

Serena is a pristine, museum-quality example of Halle's work as a doll maker. Halle's work can also be viewed in the Alfred P. Sloan Museum in Flint, Michigan and Carol Churchill Pierson Children's Gallery. Her name is also listed in many of my doll reference books for making "high-fired" clay lady dolls!

Please reach out with any questions, or reasonable offers.