As one of the most commonly encountered representations of the human form, dolls provide a unique and intriguing opportunity to catch a glimpse into different cultures. Technically a subcategory of effigies, dolls serve specific social functions as well.  The dolls featured here exhibit a variety of uses and functions that reveal a great deal about their cultural backgrounds. Some of them serve simply as toys, while others are sold to tourists, collected, or displayed. When viewing these dolls, it is interesting to note differences in their construction, appearance and dress, as these aspects display the traditions of each doll’s culture of origin. Some unifying characteristics among these four dolls include their similar size, the presence of beadwork as adornment, and their representation of female bodies. Despite their individual differences, they also share a great deal…just like human beings.