Little Dancer Pin -- Paired with Books!

I didn't intend to post about another luxury stocking stuffer so soon, but this little dancer has captured my heart! As many of you will recognize, this pin is a replica of the famous Little Fourteen-Year-Old Dancer, more commonly known as just Little Dancer. The sculpture was originally made of bronze and tulle, while this 1.25 inch high by .75 inch wide pin is made of antiqued bronze finish.

One of the reasons I think this would make a lovely, special stocking stuffer is that it can be so nicely paired with a gift under the tree. The Little Dancer has been featured in several books, including multiple picture books and even a young adult novel depicting Marie's life as an aspiring dancer at the Paris Opera. The novel is Marie, Dancing by Carolyn Meyer, and it's truly a moving story. The paperback would probably even fit in a larger stocking along with the pin, while the hardcover edition could go under the tree if that's what you prefer.

And the picture books would be great fun for younger girls to go with this keepsake pin! Two picture books I know of are Marie in Fourth Position: The Story of Degas by Amy Littlesugar and Ian Schoenherr, and Degas and the Little Dancer by Laurence Anholt. I love the way both cover illustrations capture the mood of the Little Dancer, but so differently!

And there are probably even more books out there -- clearly I'm not the only one whose imagination has been caught by the Little Dancer!



What: Little Dancer Pin, paired with a book!
Where: Museum of Fine Arts, Boston website (or other museum stores)
How much (as of today's post): $48.00 (43.20 for members) (plus shipping)