Description :

Vintage Emmett Kelly Jr.–Style Ventriloquist Dummy Clown Doll by Juro Novelty Co.

This vintage ventriloquist dummy is produced in the style of Emmett Kelly Jr. and features the classic sad-clown expression associated with mid-century American circus and vaudeville culture. The figure displays a molded painted face with arched brows, red nose, and downturned mouth, paired with a traditional clown costume in bold, saturated colors.

Constructed with a hard, hollow body and soft textile clothing, the dummy includes a working mouth mechanism operated via an internal wood-and-metal control system. Its large scale and theatrical presence indicate it was designed for performance or display rather than child play. Dolls of this type were widely produced and distributed by the Juro Novelty Co. during the mid-20th century.

Type: Ventriloquist dummy / clown figure
Maker: Juro Novelty Co. (attributed)
Style: Emmett Kelly Jr.–inspired sad clown
Era: Mid-20th century, circa 1960s
Material: Molded plastic head and hands, hollow body, mixed textiles
Color: Multicolor (green, red, yellow, blue, black)
Mechanism: Wood-and-metal mouth operation

Approximate Measurements:
Overall height: approx. 28–30"
Width (seated): approx. 18–20"

Measurements are approximate and provided for reference.

Condition:
Good vintage condition overall. Light surface wear to the painted face consistent with age. Fabric costume shows minor fraying and wear at cuffs and edges, particularly at the pant hems. Mouth mechanism present; operational status not tested. No major cracks or structural damage observed. Please review photos closely for full condition details.

Historical Note:
Emmett Kelly Jr. was one of the most recognizable American clown figures of the mid-20th century, and his likeness heavily influenced novelty and performance dolls produced during the 1950s–1960s. Juro Novelty Co. was a prolific manufacturer of ventriloquist dummies and character figures, many of which were inspired by popular entertainers of the era.

Value Context:
Comparable mid-century Juro Novelty ventriloquist dummies in Emmett Kelly–style designs typically sell in the $150–350 range, depending on size, condition, costume originality, and working mechanisms.