David Levinthal

3 unique large-format color Polaroid prints from the series 'Barbie Millicent Roberts: An Original,' each signed, dated, and editioned 'AP' in ink on the image, mounted; accompanied by the publisher's prospectus for the book of the same title, and the original Bubble Cut Barbie doll used in the photographs, 1997-98 (5)

The photographer to the present owner, 1998

These unique large-format Polaroid prints are in generally excellent condition. Along the left edge of the image of Barbie from the back, various horizontal matte scuffs are visible in raking light. In the upper left quadrant of the image of Barbie's head, a ½-inch diagonal indentation that does not break the emulsion is barely visible. The prospectus is in very good condition. There is minor spine and corner wear and a few soft handling creases on the cover. Light red-colored soiling (crayon perhaps) is visible on the back cover. This rare "Bubble Cut" Barbie is in excellent condition with no stains or marks. Her side-part and red lip color mark this doll as an early model (#850) issued in 1961-62. More commonly found on Bubble Cut Barbies are a uniform, fuller haircut, and coral, pink, or white lip color. The vintage outfit with which she comes, "Black Magic #1609", was produced between 1965-66 and is considered quite rare and a collector's item. The black sleeveless dress is made of silk shantung and has a working back zipper. The tulle cape is also in excellent condition, as are the accompanying black mesh gloves, open-toed black shoes, and pearl and hoop earrings.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

In 1999, to commemorate Barbie's 40th birthday, David Levinthal produced a series of large-format Polaroid photographs featuring the iconic doll.  Levinthal, who routinely creates thematic series using antique toys and figurines, posed vintage Barbie dolls, including the one offered with this lot, dressed in original costumes against plain studio backdrops.  Reimagining American girls' childhood companions, Levinthal elevated the mundane miniature and imbued his images with a sense of modernity.  What might first appear dated and ordinary becomes fresh and provocative as a result of Levinthal's strategic lighting, cropping, and composition. 

The rare 'Bubble Cut' Barbie accompanying this lot is the very figure pictured in the photographs offered here.  Her side-part and red lip color mark this doll as an early model (#850) issued in 1961-62.  More commonly found on later Bubble Cut Barbies are a uniform, fuller haircut, and coral, pink, or white lip color.  The vintage outfit with which she comes, 'Black Magic #1609,' was produced between 1965-66 and is considered a rare collector's item.  The black sleeveless dress, made of silk shantung and with a working back zipper, is accompanied by a tulle cape, black mesh gloves, open-toed black shoes, and pearl and hoop earrings.