item details
NameMāori dolls set
ProductionLands for Bags; manufacturer(s); circa 1930; New Zealand
Classificationdolls, costume dolls
Materialsplaster, muka (fibre)
DimensionsOverall: 130mm (width), 280mm (height)
Registration NumberGH015881
Credit linePurchased 2008
Overview
This mother and baby doll set is an example of Māori culture and identity being appropriated for purposes of tourism and commercial gain in the 1930s.
The dolls were given to customers at the Lands for Bags shop in Wellington for purchases over a certain value, and were particularly aimed at wealthy tourists.