Miss Seventeen "A Beauty Queen" 18" Fashion Doll (Marx, 1961)....

Description

Miss Seventeen "A Beauty Queen" 18" Fashion Doll (Marx, 1961). Introduced in 1961, Miss Seventeen was part of Louis Marx & Co.'s entry into the fashion doll market following the company's acquisition of rights tied to the German Bild Lilli design. Marketed under the subtitle "A Beauty Queen," the doll was positioned around pageantry and high fashion, complete with crown, sash, and cape, and supported by a broad wardrobe of separately available outfits. Within the context of early-1960s American fashion dolls, Miss Seventeen reflects a moment when manufacturers emphasized glamour, presentation, and aspirational styling as central features rather than accessories to play. The box exhibits significant wear overall, with heavy scuffing evident throughout and pronounced corner wear that includes areas of crushing. The lid shows extensive handling wear, with creasing and surface tearing present, and sections where the printed graphics are lifting away from the cardboard. Inside, the doll and accessories show comparatively lighter wear, with minor scuffing and some paint rub consistent with age. Three points of the crown are broken. The remaining accessories and the instructions are included. Despite the condition issues noted, Miss Seventeen remains an evocative example of Marx's approach to the category, centered on size, costume, and the enduring appeal of the beauty queen ideal.

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