Object Description

Muñecas quitapenas, or worry dolls, are small hand-made figurines indigenous to the Central American nation of Guatemala. They are very small in size, typically measuring no more than an inch from head to toe, and are simple in composition. The production process of the dolls is quite simple in nature; dolls are hand-made out of wire and cloth. The body of the doll is first constructed by twisting wire together to form what very closely resembles a stick figure. Next, the wire frame is swaddled in flesh-toned cloth to give shape to the tiny doll. More elaborately constructed worry dolls feature extremities including arms, legs, or both; however, the majority of dolls are made without arms or legs, and as such are only body and head.

The composition of worry dolls in and of itself is very basic, which allows young children to partake in the construction process. However, despite their simple composition, the dolls are generally quite elaborate and colourful figures. Detail is achieved through the use of brightly coloured, hand-woven textiles. Those dolls lucky enough to possess extremities are first wrapped from waist to neck in coloured string, and are then dressed in detailed skirts or pants made from decorative cloth. Arms-less dolls are wrapped in elaborate textiles and often graced with adornments such as a belt. Many dolls are also decorated with colourful head dresses reminiscent of those used by Mayan indigenous groups.

Guatemalan worry dolls are of simple composition and cheaply made; however, despite their humble nature they are visually stimulating figures thanks to the vibrant and detailed textiles that adorn their persons. The decorative process lends them a sense of visual appeal, but more importantly bestows an appearance that is distinctly Mayan in character, thereby trumpeting their connection to Guatemala's indigenous heritage.