An antique marotte -- jester's stick -- featuring the head of a jester with his cap and bells. Handmade from a sock and cotton cloth, in yellow and purple with red accents. Painted and embroidered face. The wood stick was once fully covered; the fabric has been since worn from holding. 2 bells are missing. c. 1910s-1920s. 17" to the top of his head (a few more inches if you count the cap too). Very rare. Marottes were used as stage props (King Lear, As You Like It, commedia dell'arte, etc.), and also as children's toys.