Female corn husk doll with two baskets c. 1900 - 1930

This corn husk doll with two baskets was made by an artist from the Woodlands. Dolls like this are more than playthings; they embody cultural values and social roles within Indigenous communities. The doll's facelessness is a striking feature that reflects spiritual beliefs about not creating graven images that could contain a spirit. The clothing, with its floral patterns and beaded trim, evokes a connection to the natural world. Corn itself is not just a crop, but a sacred gift and a symbol of sustenance and community. The baskets she holds suggest gathering, work and the provision of resources. To understand the social context of this piece, we might research the history of Woodlands communities, their spiritual practices, and the significance of corn in their culture. Exploring museum collections, historical documents, and oral histories could reveal the deeper meanings embedded in this seemingly simple doll.