Bulgaria Doll Kuker

Bulgaria Kuker doll (plurial Kukeri). Kukeri perform ritual dances to scare away evil spirits and bring good luck. Costumes are made of hairy goat or sheep skin, with horned animal masks and large bells attached to the belt. With label under his foot that reads something like ‘Malko Kukeruje’ meaning ‘A Little Kuker’. Possibly missing his belt with bells.

Folklore is in the air… uhm… ear!

Details

Object Ritual doll
Origin Bulgaria
Culture Unknown
Medium Fabric, wood, feathers, ribbon, leather, yarn, lace, sequins
Mark or Tag Paper label
Made by Unknown
Size H 28 cm
Dated 1980
Acquired Online 2011

Postcard

Here's a postcard that matches this doll. It shows how the people living in Bulgaria are dressed in their traditional costume.

Text on the back of the postcard: 'Bulgaria, Folklore Bulgare. 1 Kouker. 2 Ensemble de musique folklorique. 3 Lazarka. 4 Horo (Ronde)'. Postmark 1972.

Happy collecting,