Indian Wood Doll

Dark, buttoned-up and tall of hair, this figure stands guard over nothing in particular.

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. Mehsana District lies in northern Gujarat, a region with a long tradition of woodworking in houses, furniture and small decorative objects. Narrow standing figure with a stacked headdress, delicately drawn eyes and hands held at the belly. The darker, almost black finish deepens the pleated skirt, and the small round base shows a few worn highlights. It is 3 inches wide, 2 deep and 10 high.

Serious posture, with mischievous eyebrows on top.