Doll c. 1936

Kapousouz painted this watercolor of a doll sometime between 1855 and 1995. The artist lived through a period of immense social change and upheaval. This includes the independence of Greece, several Balkan wars, two World Wars, and the Cold War. This doll, with its delicate dress and carefully painted features, exists at the intersection of childhood, identity, and cultural representation. Dolls like this often served as tools for teaching young girls about societal expectations, gender roles, and cultural values. The doll’s attire reflects the fashion of a particular era, offering insights into the aesthetic ideals and social customs. Through Kapousouz’s rendering, the doll becomes more than just a plaything; it becomes a mirror reflecting the complex interplay between personal identity and cultural norms. This piece prompts us to consider the silent dialogues between generations, the subtle ways in which we internalize and perpetuate the stories we tell ourselves about who we are.