Doll

Object number2005.50.4

Date1985

Mediumwood/plastic/paper/cotton/paint/glue

Credit LineGift of Slovenian Heritage Association

DescriptionKurant or Korent doll. Figure has light colored "fur"suit with brown "fur" headpiece. Face is painted white, red and black; Kurant has long red tongue and straw whiskers. On top of headpiece are two sticks with brightly colored strips of paper and feathers. Kurant is holding a stick and has a belt of cow bells around its waist. Figure is on a wood block stand.Dimensions11.5 x 2.5 in. (29.2 x 6.4 cm)
Historical NotesPurchased in Slovenia by a member of the Slovenian Heritage Association. Used by the organiztion at their group events and in their displays at the Pittsburgh Folk Festival. The Kurent or Korant dates back to pre-Christian time in Slovenia and is the oldest folklore costume in all of Europe. Legend holds that the "Kurent" saved two children from the primeval universal flood, from whom descended all Slovenians. Now part of the Lenten festivals in Slovenia, he appears as a symbol of reawakening and the end of winter. Label TextPurchased in different parts of Slovenia, the Slovenian Heritage Association used these dolls in their group events and displays at the Pittsburgh Folk Festival.

Related person Terry Stefl

Related institution Slovenian Heritage Association

Subjects