Found not one, but two of these vintage, hand crank novelty girls last week. I'm not exactly sure when they came out, I've read possibly as early as the 1940's... who knows? Anyway, F
atima the Harem Dancing Girl is the more splendidly designed of the two, and even seated on her fluffy pillow, her wiggle 'n twist action is surprisingly life-like. She's unfortunately not in the greatest condition anymore, as the rubbery material has started to deteriorate a bit so I think I'll rename her
Fatima the Zombie Harem Dancing Girl, (plus she's missing her original carnival-esque box), but she was still quite a $10 bargain compared to most online prices!
SEE HER MOVE!
The Hula Dancer on the other hand comes conveniently packaged in her own clear case with the appropriate palm tee and beach background (including a gawking stalker!) painted right on it. She's not as intricately designed or as realistic as Fatima, (and could the paint job be any sloppier?), but she can still shake it like the best of 'em! She's also the easier of the two to crank into action.
SEE HER GROOVE!
Yes sir, an early form of daring, do-it-yourself animation-- right at your fingertips! Gentleman, start your dancers!