Oscar Land, 1950s. Creator: Unknown

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Oscar Land, 1950s. Creator: Unknown

Ventriloquists dummy owned by African-American actor and stand-up and TV comedian Stewart Byron " Stu" Gilliam (1933-2013). A male ventriloquist doll made of wood. The doll, named Oscar Land, is painted brown and has pink accents to highlight the nose, cheeks, and lips. The doll has brown eyes, black hair and is wearing a black and white tuxedo and black shoes

Heritage Images features heritage image collections

Media ID 23857529

© Heritage Art/Heritage Images

1950s Black History Cultural Heritage Doll Dummy Fifties Heritage Nmaahc Toys Afro American Ventriloquism

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable piece of cultural history - "Oscar Land, 1950s". The creator of this intriguing ventriloquist dummy remains unknown, but its significance lies in the fact that it was owned by the talented African-American actor and stand-up comedian Stewart Byron Gilliam, better known as Stu Gilliam (1933-2013). Crafted from wood with meticulous attention to detail, Oscar Land is painted brown with delicate pink accents highlighting his nose, cheeks, and lips. His expressive brown eyes and black hair add depth to his character. Dressed in a dapper black and white tuxedo paired with polished black shoes, Oscar exudes an air of sophistication. This photograph transports us back to the vibrant 1950s era in America when entertainment took many forms. Ventriloquism was a popular art form during this time, and dolls like Oscar Land played an integral role in captivating audiences nationwide. Preserved within the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), this heritage artifact represents not only a significant moment in entertainment history but also serves as a testament to the talent and creativity displayed by African-American artists throughout the 20th century. As we admire this unique piece of heritage artistry captured by an unknown photographer's lens, let us appreciate its contribution to our understanding of American culture while honoring Stu Gilliam's legacy as both an entertainer and advocate for diversity on stage.

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