Summary
Note: This object is a cultural stereotype. Such representations are not condoned by Museums Victoria which considers them to be racist. Historical distance and context do not excuse or erase this fact.
Boxed Marionette or a String Puppet made by Lamont Puppets, circa 1954. It was one of a set of three of the puppets received by Ann Hargreaves as a gift for Christmas in 1954. They came with a simple stand up theatre which fitted in her bedroom doorway. She and a cousin used them to perform concerts. She was an only child, and often use to play with them in front of a mirror so she could watch the play. She would make up storylines, and also made other costumes to transform the puppets (none of which survive.)
Physical Description
Wooden puppet dressed in a flower print tunic, light pink pants, a red felt hat and a plaited ponytail. The puppet's face has been painted with angled almond shaped eyes and a thin moustache, to give him the appearance of a Chinese man.
More Information
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Collecting Areas
Home & Community, Migration & Cultural Diversity, Childhood, Leisure
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Acquisition Information
Donation from Mrs Ann Hargreaves, 05 Jun 2000
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Manufacturer
Lamont Puppets, South Yarra, Greater Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, 1954-1965
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User
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Brand Names
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Classification
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Category
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Discipline
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Type of item
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Dimensions
335 mm (Height)
Meaurements taken while marionette was in box and do not account for the strings and control piece in height,
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Keywords
Children's Play, Chinese Communities, Chinese Immigration, Games, Puppets, Racial Identity, Puppetry, Cultural Stereotypes
