Thanjavur Doll
Figurines and Toys
History
The Thanjavur doll is a renowned traditional Indian doll from Tamil Nadu, rooted deeply in India’s rich artistic heritage. Belonging to the Thanjavur Bommai category, these dolls are famed for their distinctive bobblehead-like movement. Made using papier-mâché, clay, and wood, they are hand-painted with intricate designs and vibrant colors that reflect the region’s artistic excellence.
Raw Materials and Tools
RAW MATERIALS: Cloth, clay, Plaster of Paris, paper pulp, mud, paint, chalk powder, coconut husk, oil (organic material)
TOOLS: Chiwari, kneading machine, rolling pin, air spray gun
Process
Thanjavur dolls are made using moulds crafted from specific stones. A dough of Plaster of Paris and paper pulp (1:3 ratio) with tuber flour is shaped in these moulds. After drying for about twelve hours, papers are affixed and parts are joined, with gaps carefully filled. Clay is applied at the base, and once fully dried, the dolls are painted and finished—preserving a traditional craft passed down for decades.
Design and Color
Thanjavur dolls span five distinctive varieties: the roly-poly Raja Rani pair; graceful dancing dolls depicting Bharatanatyam, Kathakali, and Poi-Kal Kuthirai; and delightful bobbling-head figures like Chettiar and Aachi—essential to every Golu display. Kanchipuram Golu sets further include a wide range of religious and social-life depictions.
Product Range
Artisans create across all five varieties, showing remarkable innovation—especially in dolls that portray facets of everyday social life alongside traditional themes.