Papago Doll

Mid 20th Century

7.25" H x 5.75" L x 4" W

Hand Crafted from Cactus Ribs of a Male in Bent Over Posture Wearing Fabric Clothing, Hair and a Yarn Belt Holding a Bag and a Sack of Sticks

In Very Good Condition

Papago Dolls is a traditional handmade dolls created by the Tohono O'odham people (previously known as the Papago), a Native American tribe from the Sonoran Desert region in southern Arizona and northern Mexico.

Made from saguaro cactus ribs (the woody skeleton of the iconic saguaro cactus), often with added details like human hair, articulated arms, and small utilitarian items (e.g., walking sticks or miniature baskets). Notable artists include Chepa Franco (who dressed and accessorized them) and Domingo Franco from the mid-20th century.