Mexican Cornhusk Dolls

Corn plays an essential role in Mexican culture. Every element of corn is used from the silks for medicine to the fungus on the kernels (huitlacoche). Mexican Corn Husk Dolls are an example of one of the most dramatic uses for corn is in Mexican crafts.

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Article By: Barbara Bowman

Published by: Gourmet Sleuth
Last Updated: 08/18/2019

Dolls Throughout History

Corn husk dolls are seen in most all cultures that harvest and use corn. The native American Indians have all produced dolls of varying styles. Later the European settlers learned from the natives and made corn husk dolls for their children too.

grouping of corn husk dolls

corn husks dolls, made in Michoacan, Mexico available at Gourmetsleuth.com

Dolls From Around The World

Corn husk dolls are still made in many societies. Here is an example from Botswana, Africa.

corn husk dolls from botswana

El SalvadorThe dolls of El Salvador have faces and range from simple to ornate costumes. The dolls are a specialty of the town Santiago Texacuangos and are referred to as "tusa"

el salvador corn husk dolls

Corn Husk Dolls

iroquoi cornhusk faceless doll
photo by: allard-auctions Iroquois doll, early 1900's

Corn plays an essential role in Mexican culture. Every element of corn is used from the silks for medicine to the fungus on the kernels (huitlacoche). This is an example of one of the most dramatic uses for corn is in Mexican crafts.

It is traditional in Mexico to use both dyed and natural corn husks for doll making. Also traditional textiles are used for costumes.