Indian Wood Doll

Hands clasped, face carved in a mask-like stare, and a coat in amber and olive.

This carved and painted wooden doll from Gujarat is from Mehsana District, Gujarat, India, and dates to the early 20th century. It is carved & painted wood. Gujarat is known for its folk arts, including wooden toys and figures that were carved by local craftsmen and then colored with bright pigments. A standing carved figure with a flat, squarish face, flared side ears and a small peaked top. Its arms fold across the front over a long, patterned robe. The surface shows golden-brown and olive tones with a worn finish. It is 3 inches wide, 2 deep and 11 high.

A serious little person with excellent posture.