There are a wide array of Black Americana wooden dancing figures, but I've never seen another joined pair like this. I imagine that there was once a thin rod or wire that attached to the holes on either side of their arms by which one would hold them up and make them dance, but now they are just as is. I really love the arc of those orange arms, which gives them a sense of movement even while they are standing still...plus, there are those black boots! A pretty special pair, I think.
The figures can be configured in a variety of positions, facing one another or with backs turned, though as the feet of two of the boots (one per figure) are missing, they are most stable seated. One could also very easily thread string or wire through the holes and hang them from the wall or ceiling.
They come in a very old "One Cent Havanas" wooden cigar box, in which I found them, and into which they fit perfectly. I'd guess they date from sometime between the 1910s-1930s. Very good condition, with very little paint loss, just some minor stains and dings. There is a string tied around the nail holding one leg in place, which I think is just there to keep it tight in absence of a washer.
Dimensions: 6 1/2" tall x 3 1/2" wide x 1 1/2" deep. Dimension of cigar box: 6 3/4" x 4 1/8" x 2".
