Journey into the enchanting world of dolls
In the heart of Tehran, a two-story building holds within its walls a mesmerizing realm that beckons visitors to embark on a unique journey – the International Doll Museum. This extraordinary museum isn’t just a collection of dolls; it’s a living tapestry of cultures, stories, and histories woven into each meticulously crafted figurine. As you cross the threshold, you’re welcomed into the enchanting world of dolls – a world where every doll holds a piece of a story, every display a window to another corner of the globe.
Dolls from every corner of the globe
The first floor of this captivating museum boasts an array of French dolls, each proudly representing 86 countries. Guiding your exploration is Ali Golshan, the passionate director of the museum, who seamlessly transforms your visit into a journey of storytelling. Among the many enchanting tales, the American Latin dolls take center stage. Here, you’ll discover the world’s tiniest dolls – the “worry dolls”. Golshan recounts their heartwarming origin: Guatemalan mothers handcraft these diminutive dolls out of wood and fabric, entrusting them with their children’s nighttime worries. Placed under pillows, the dolls magically absorb their worries, ensuring peaceful sleep.
Wander through the exhibits and you’ll find Kachina dolls crafted from the stalks of linen plants, a testament to Native American spirituality. A Mexican Day of the Dead Doll, the vivacious Catrina shares the poignant lesson that life’s beauty transcends mortality. A faceless Ukrainian mother and child stand as sentinels at the entrance of homes, while historical figures like Emperor Jimmu of Japan and Nicolaus, the last Polish King, assert their presence. Dive deeper into history as British Royal Guard soldiers stand tall, accompanied by Turkish Ottoman women, all eloquent storytellers in their own right.
Symphony of culture and friendship
According to Golshan, dolls symbolize peace and friendship; they’re storytellers that don’t deceive or steal. With each display, narratives come alive, offering windows into diverse cultures. The museum houses 3,000 dolls from around the world, although space constraints allow only a fraction to be exhibited. Golshan, a steadfast presence at the museum, explained, “These dolls have become family to me.” On Fridays, you see children becoming cultural guides for their families over the weekends, enriching perspectives and expanding horizons.
As you traverse the museum, your senses are invigorated by the vibrant array of colorful hats from Germany, India, Japan, Africa, and beyond. The passion behind this collection emanates from Golshan and Masoud Nasseri Daryaei, who have traveled the world for 15 years, gathering dolls and photographs. Their dedication culminated in a collection so vast that even their own storage couldn’t contain it all. Inspired by a visit to Delhi’s Shankar’s International Doll Museum, they decided to share this treasure trove with their nation. A book penned by Golshan on this odyssey is set to grace shelves soon, offering further insights into this fascinating realm.
Iranian dolls
The second floor unveils a tapestry of Iranian culture. Dolls adorned in regional attire, each intricately sculpted by artist Sara Hosseini, stand as proud representatives of 26 Iranian regions. These dolls capture the essence of the nation’s diversity, with a bride from Isfahan, a Turkmen bride from Golestan, and a bride from Khuzestan, standing shoulder to shoulder, each unique in attire and heritage.
A separate section of the museum serves as a time capsule, showcasing toys from Iran and the world. Memories flood back as visitors encounter familiar childhood playthings. Stereo cameras, view-masters, and the enduring legacy of teddy bears unfold before your eyes. Azadeh Bayat, curator of the toy section, shares captivating stories behind these cherished objects that have stood the test of time.
As you stroll through the museum’s corridors, it’s impossible not to smile, to reconnect with the child within you. The International Doll Museum transcends its role as a repository of artifacts; it’s a portal to the past, a gateway to cultures, and a celebration of stories. In a world often hurried and disconnected, this museum stands as a testament to the enduring power of human creativity, imagination, and the universal appeal of dolls that transcend borders and generations.
Step into this magical realm and let the dolls guide you through the intricate tapestry of cultures, history, and friendship that make up the International Doll Museum in Tehran.