RCA Victor Radiotron Doll

[melvind]

I was at an antique show last Friday with Jerry Blais and picked up this fun RCA item. I believe its from 1926 and very colorful and fully articulated. I've heard it was a Maxwell Parish design but I don't know that for sure.

[phonogfp]

I've always liked those figurines,   Even though they fall outside my collecting sphere, I admit I'd have a hard time turning my back on one at a reasonable price.  We showed one of these on page 96 of Phonographs with Flair.

 

Congratulations, Dan!

 

George P.

[melvind]

Thanks, George. I remember seeing it in your book. There are so many fun related items for phonograph collectors.

[melvind]

Since my original post I've learned more about the Radiotron figure and last weekend found the GE radio guy as well. The radiotron figure is called The Selling Fool. The GE figure is named Bandy. Here they are together with a few other extras.

 

[Henry]

Nice pieces! Took me a minute to get the play on words with "Bandy," as in "band," since he's obviously a drum major. Stupid me, and I played a band instrument, too. Mmm, maybe that's why....

 

They could very well be Maxfield Parrish. Something about the faces; see https://www.wikiart.org/en/maxfield-parrish/the-knave-of-hearts-1925-2

Also this one: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maxfield_Parrish#/media/File:LIFEMagazine30Aug1923.jpg

 

Maxfield Parrish (1870-1966), Philadelphia native, Quaker, Haverford, PAFA, Drexel.  Go Phillies! Fly Eagles Fly! and all that jazz.

Edited 3 hours ago by Henry

[melvind]

I believe at least the radioton guy was based on Maxfield Parish art. Here are some images of what appear to be Maxfield Parish art done for RCA Radiotron. I don't own these ads and don't remember where I found them, but I sure do like them.

 

 

[Henry]

Excellent images! I'm convinced that they're by Parrish, alright.