These puppets were carved and hand painted by Johnny Eck. He also made the stage and clothes for the puppets. As a young boy he discovered the joy of performing while using these puppets. It allowed Johnny to take on several personalities. While behind the curtain he was able to operate unseen. Thus hiding his body. Also interesting that the puppets resemble Johnny in that they do not have legs either. (except for the full figure pictured below.)

Of the many puppets that he made during his lifetime only 11 of them are known to have survived. Seven of which are finished.

This was commissioned by the Museum over a decade ago. It was carved out of one solid piece of wood by a local Baltimore Tobacco Indian carver named Fred. It is near life- sized. Standing 18" tall from ribs to top of head.