I'm sure Oscar Wilde would have found this to be a compliment as he was well known for his appreciation of the absurd. And really, what is more decadent than an action figure? Think beyond it as a child's plaything. The adult who owns an action figure does so out of vanity. It is not to be handled, or thrown about, or left to the elements. It is to be kept in the original packaging, put on display, and spoken about in hushed tones.
In other words, the action figure would find its place amongst Wilde's peacocks feathers, sunflowers, and blue china. To the grown man, it is purely an aesthetic object. Hence, this action figure is not ironic at all.
And what about the action figure itself? The manufacturer describes it thusly:
Oscar Wilde was a writer and lecturer of great accomplishment, but he is most famous for his comedic plays, quick wit and eccentric dress. This 5-1/4" tall, hard vinyl action figure is dressed for a party where Wilde will quickly cut all those around him to pieces with barbed witticisms. Removable cane included!Archie McPhee® Toys, Gifts & Novelties
Yeah, you got to admit the removable cane is cool. I can imagine Wilde walking around spouting off his witticisms, further enunciating them with his cane. What a wicked toy.
2 comments:
This is on my "to buy" list. So far, I've only gotten around to picking up the Poe figure.
Hey mlfoley, I didn't know you came around here. It's great to see that you have an appreciation for the quixotical side of things. Not that I didn't think you had it before but... well, I just think it's cool you like the Oscar Wilde action figure.
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