South Africa Doll with Baby Xhosa People

The origins of this doll remained a mystery for a long time but she most likely is representing the Xhosa people. The ochre orange color of her skirt and the bag and jewellery strongly suggest Xhosa. She is carrying a baby on the back.

Folklore is in the air… uhm… ear!

Details

Object Doll wearing traditional costume
Origin South Africa, Eastern Cape
Culture Xhosa people
Medium Fabric, wire, beads, felt, ribbon
Mark or Tag None
Made by Unknown
Size H 20 cm
Dated Not dated
Acquired Fleamarket end 1990's

Postcard

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

Text on the back of the postcard: 'Transkei Southern Africa. Xhosa villagers - with some dressed in the traditional garb of 'Red Blanket' and a woman smoking the characteristic long-stemmed pipe.' Postmark 1982.

Happy collecting,