Rags and jute into dolls

Doll making is a very elaborate craft which portrays daily life in the Algarvian villages, especially in the interior.

Each of the famous Martinlongo dolls tells a story about everyday life among the people of Alcoutim.  The dolls are mainly women, and are a detailed reproduction of the physical appearance and apparel of the people they’re named after, for example Ti Zefa da Lenha. All have a fold in the hem of their dress for a foot, a decorated head, and are presented holding utensils which identify the daily activity they represent.

In the centre of the region, the Querença ragdolls reproduce local customs of the village in the municipality of Loulé. They portray local habits, with traditional clothes used in olden times in day to day work.   Measuring 25 centimetres in height and dressed carefully in regional attire, the dolls have embroidered faces and hair made of wool.  To make the dolls, strong wire, all sorts of rags or scraps of cloth, foam and textiles are used.  

Being beautiful and attractive items, they make excellent souvenirs for visitors wishing to carry home small mementos.