Black Boy Doll Holding Watermelon Slice

This catalog is an ongoing project as we continue adding new pieces and researching listed items. If you have any information about an object in this collection, please reach out to us at info@aahafauquier.org

Description:

Miniature black baby doll boy made from bisque in excellent condition. He has a removable hat and wears a tan shirt with overalls. The doll holds a watermelon slice in his right hand. His arms and legs are articulated.

Product Origin:

Unknown.

Background:

To learn more about this piece read "Toys as History: Ethnic Images and Cultural Change”

To learn more about the significance of watermelon imagery read "How Watermelon’s Reputation Got Tangled in Racism" and “How Watermelons Became a Racist Trope”

Statement: We understand these objects may inflict offense through their embodiment of racist ideology by depicting stereotypical and discriminatory imagery and language. However, we hope to educate our community and encourage personal reflection through interacting and understanding the historical context of these objects, rather than ignoring them.