Dancing Doll c. 1940

Selma Sandler made this watercolour and graphite drawing on paper of a dancing doll. The choice of humble materials reminds us that even the simplest items are rooted in histories of creative practices and aesthetics. Sandler's doll drawing brings the traditions of craft and fine art together. This piece is carefully rendered and brings a sense of dignity to the doll, which is elevated from a child’s toy into a work of art. The doll is made of wood and its form is simple, and the surface is smooth, with a few details such as the buttons and hat. Its limbs are articulated so it can be posed and made to dance, suggesting that it was intended for play. The amount of work that went into the doll's production, however, is significant. It points us to a time when labor was relatively inexpensive and goods were often made by hand. Consider how material and making give the doll its full meaning, challenging our notions of art.