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John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA
Doll Carolers
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA

Doll Carolers

Artifact IDMO 63.3506
Object Type Doll
Date ca. 1960
Date Presented4/30/63
Place MadeLuxembourg, Europe
Medium Wood, wool, horsehair, paper
DimensionsOverall H 13 in x W 8 in x D 8 in (33 cm x 20.3 cm x 20.3 cm)

Physical DescriptionBoy and girl dolls with plaster bodies mounted on a wood base. Male doll wears a variegated wool sweater, brown corduroy short trousers, cap and a green wool scarf. Female doll wears an orange wool sweater, multi-colored wool tweed skirt, and black wool shawl. Couple are meant to be Christmas carolers in the act of singing. Each holds a candle and a bag.
Historical NoteThese figures were presented to Caroline Kennedy by Grand Duchess Charlotte of Luxembourg during the Dutchess' visit to the White House on April 30, 1963. They are depicted participating in a typcial Candlemas (St. Blasius Day Eve) activity, in which children in Luxembourg go from house to house seeking candy while singing ancient carols. Church-supplied candlewicks wrapped around sticks light their way.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteItem was a gift to President and Mrs. Kennedy from the Grand Duchess Charlotte of Luxembourg. It was donated to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library by the Estate of President John F. Kennedy in 1965.
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of President John F. Kennedy
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedUse Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
Not on view
Related Links
Sound recording of President Kennedy’s toast to Grand Duchess Charlotte: