Don't call them dolls; they're historical figures

February 2nd is the last chance to hear George Stuart's historical monologue about Chinese Imperial Gardens at the Ventura County Museum.

What has this to do with dolls? Mr. Stuart makes the most gorgeous, highly detailed, and meticulously researched one fourth scale figures of historical characters as the visual aids to his monologues. I've seen some of them and they are truly breathtaking. He constructs a skeleton, adds skin and makes every part of the costume and wigs. According to his biography, available from the museum gift shop, he has slowly increased his skills over the years to make each figure all his own work, including learning millinery, beading, embroidery and miniature cobbling.

Six of his magnificent figures will be on display as part of the monologue, I believe in addition to the rest of the permanent collection. The museum is nice place to visit anyway.