This is a handmade porcelain doll with the traditional dress of the Karen or Yang hilltribe of Thailand. It was made by Youthana Boonprakong and was purchased from a craft store dealing in the finest of Thai handicrafts, under the patronage of the queen.
From the description included with the doll:
Karen in Thailand are divided into 2 major groups: Sako-Karen and Pow-Karen. Smaller groups are Kaya and Pa-o. Most Karen houses are built on foothills, lowere than those of other tribes. Their houses are raised high from the ground, leaving the space under them for family gatherings and for such daily activities as chopping up firewood and husking rice by pounding it. Also, at night, the place serves as an enclosure for pets.
Karen hold in deep respect the village monks and the senior. In case there is a quarrel among villagers, the monks and the seniors are responsible for restoring peace and will see to it that well being of the villagers is maintained.
