Lupita with Virgen Dress

Originating in the 1800s, Lupita dolls were initially crafted from paper mache as an affordable alternative to porcelain dolls. These traditional Mexican handicrafts are still produced by a few artists today. The name Lupita comes from the diminutive form of the popular girls' name Guadalupe, likely chosen due to its commonness. These dolls were toys for the poor, used by children to mimic daily chores, and each one was unique, created by hundreds of artisan families. For over a century, hand-crafted Lupita dolls were sold in Mexico City and other large markets, maintaining their popularity until the advent of plastic toys. In modern times, Lupita dolls are primarily decorative, made from ceramic and intricately adorned. They serve as nostalgic items displayed for comfort and good fortune, symbolizing the everyday life of Mexico, from small villages to bustling cities, and hold significance beyond being mere children's toys.