Armenian “bride’s doll” and its symbolism

The significance of dolls in Armenian culture is highlighted through their ritual roles, which include protection, punishment, fortune-telling, and serving as an “interlocutor.” Within Armenian households, a variety of dolls crafted from materials like cloth, thread, dough, clay, wood, metal, and wool, or even household items such as a broom or a spade, are found. These dolls have become cherished family heirlooms, passed down through generations, and now hold an important ethnographic and preservative function, promoting and preserving Armenian national costumes, accessories, and customs.
One particularly notable doll in Armenian tradition is the “bride’s doll.” Historically, the doll was a significant part of a bride’s dowry in Armenia, often being prepared in secrecy by her mother or grandmother. Given the historical reticence of brides, the doll served as a unique conversational companion within the bride’s room.
Married young women relied on ritual dolls like the “sabri khrtsig,” also known as the “doll of patience.” As part of her dowry, an older member of the family would craft the doll in secret for the bride. During times of hardship, the daughter-in-law would confide in the “sabri khrtsig,” pouring out her troubles in one of the quiet corners of the house.

The “bride’s doll” in the image above was created by the prominent Armenian artist and ethnographer Lusik Aguletsi.