Indian Wood Doll

A standing figure with a square head, folded hands and a dark, glossy coat.

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. Wooden dolls in India were often made as children's playthings and, in some regions, as figures associated with festivals and household customs. A carved figure with a square face, side-swept ear shapes and a small tall cap, hands folded at the chest. A long robe-like body is carved with patterned panels. The surface is dark green-brown and polished, standing on a thick base. It is 3 inches wide, 2 deep and 10 high.

Formal in posture and extremely patient about it.