Folklor/Edebiyat

Abstract

Rag dolls have been crafted as figurative toys since ancient times, originally intended as playthings for girls. However, with the passage of time, there has been a
shift, and children began engaging with ready-made dolls. In the contemporary era,
rag dolls are predominantly manufactured for the tourism sector. They are crafted
and marketed as decorative items, transitioning away from their original role as
toys. These particular rag dolls are often labeled as “traditional” or “folkloric”
dolls, designed to mirror the traditional attire of their respective regions. Many are
created by dressing pre-made plastic dolls in locally inspired clothing. Yet, Cappadocia
and Çomakdağ dolls stand out as examples where the core structure of the
doll is authentically crafted in a traditional manner. Among these, Çomakdağ dolls
stand out for being exclusively fashioned from textile products, showcasing a distinct
rag doll characteristic. In terms of construction technique, they are categorized
as “multi-part” rag dolls crafted solely from textile materials. The “Çomakdağ
Cloth Dolls,” embodying a synthesis of Çomakdağ cultural and aesthetic values,
should be recognized in the literature as a form of “design.” The researcher has
illuminated the design processes through drawings and photographs. This study
draws attention to the aesthetic and cultural significance of traditional Çomakdağ
rag dolls from a design perspective. Simultaneously, recommendations are put
forth for their utilization as products that can contribute to cultural, aesthetic, and
design awareness in educational environments.