This is a marionette puppet most likely Italian these puppets were very popular forms of entertainment in early 14th century onward .The black of the head isn't finished and there are a number of drill holes in the back of the torso .the holes would be where the strings would attach ,the fabric has a block print that would be indicative of 17th century  the Torso is badly ravaged by wood worms and is missing arms and legs you can see in the photograph this primitive doll has amazing Providence and because of the antique trade Gazette  very rare 17th century English doll turns heads we have offered a  rare opportunity to own an authentic 17th century doll the same dolls were used in the Rosalie Whyel Museum of Doll Art in Bellevue Washington when it was in business in before it became defunct you can still see photographs  of the same doll collection on their official brochure when they were open .this particular piece was held back by the original seller due to the damaged torso area thay had sold the dolls to the museum in Bellevue Washington  in the 1970s for an undisclosed amount the doll marionette itself measures 10 inches long 4 in wide add an inch and a half thick it is made of wood and has some termite damage it is painted black and has 17th century textile clothing it is being sold as is condition and so much as it's from the 17th century I'd be happy to answer any other questions you have about the doll marionette feel free to email me through eBay thanks a bunch for looking