Boy George doll in box
Object No. 2018/91/4
Culture Club was one of the major bands to emerge in the early 1980s with a soul pop sound and a striking lead singer, Boy George, born George Alan O'Dowd in 1961. This Boy George doll wears a miniature reproduction of his 'Colour by Numbers' costume, a white ensemble with red and black numbers, bows in braided hair, hat and bold make up. 'Colour by Numbers' was Culture Club's successful second album, released in 1983. Boy George's characteristic style during this time was an androgynous mix of male and female clothing and makeup together with dress from various cultures around the world, including Japanese kimonos, Rastafarian head wraps and hats traditionally worn by male Hasidic Jews. Four of Boy George's many looks can be seen featured on the doll's packaging, each with different hairstyles, makeup and accessories. Fans imitated this style and a Boy George fashion and makeup book was published around the same time, featuring step-by-step guides. Alysha Buss, Assistant Curator, July 2018
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Summary
Object Statement
Doll and packaging, 'Boy George The Original Outrageous Boy of Rock', plastic / cardboard, designed by LJN, New York, United States of America, made in China, c. 1984
Physical Description
Boy George 'The Original Outrageous Boy of Rock' doll in packaging. The doll wears a white ensemble with black and red numbers over a blue undershirt. The doll's face is painted to represent a full face of stage make up and it has bows in its long braided hair. The doll has a microphone in its left hand and red boots on its feet. The packaging is a yellow box with a plastic window, and features photos of Boy George in various hairstyles and make up.
DIMENSIONS
Height
350 mm
Width
180 mm
Depth
65 mm
PRODUCTION
Notes
This doll was made by New York-based LJN Toys Ltd in China c. 1984.
SOURCE
Credit Line
Purchased 2009
Acquisition Date
27 September 2018
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