Macedonian dolls

Pictured here is a 12" female cloth doll over wire armature wearing a folk costume from Macedonia, and in particular the town of Smilevo in the south west of Macedonia. I have featured a smaller 8" version elsewhere on this blog(smaller doll).

In great condition, what I especially like about this hard to find doll are her necklace, belt and aprons. Made from a sturdy golden braid, the necklace and belt are very well made as is her fringed apron. Also of note is the red woollen thread

detail on her front and around the botton of her off- white vest. 

Perhaps a little hard to see in the photos is the fact her arms are rather long for her body and the hands on the bigger size. However that I think just adds to the character of the doll. For my money the Smilevo costume rates as one of the most impressive in a region with some outstanding folk costumes and this doll certainly gives a hint of that craftsmanship.