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Dolls to celebrate a dance of ancient times: raqs sharki, better known as belly dance
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Raqs Sharki, Oriental Dance, Middle Eastern Dance, Cabaret, American Tribal Style are dances that have been a subject of study, performance and of paintings for many years. Today they are portrayed and are a mystic subject for doll makers. These dolls are adorned and bejeweled, as the real dancers are, with coins, beads, and hip scarves. There are even in the full cabaret costuming; an ensemble of a beaded or coined fringed top and matching belt, fitted over a chiffon butterfly or straight skirt. There is the traditional folkloric and tribal attire. The decorative cholis, harem pants, sashes over the hips, surrounding a long tunic or caftan, topping it off with head wraps, fully decorated with silver, tassels and jewelry findings.
Props are also part of a dancer’s performance, so doll makers can capture the presence of the silk or chiffon veil, the sword, the tahtiyb, the cane, the candelabra, the tambourine and finally the zagats or zills, better known as finger cymbals.
Raqs Sharki or Belly dance dolls are commemoration of a dance that has been captivated by the world. Women, as well as men and children have danced to the beats of the Beledy and Saidi rhythms, rejoicing in movement and expression of the music with their souls. Doll artists who embrace this dance and the dancers, by creating “Raqs” dolls, are managing to harness the beauty and the spirit of a true art form, diminishing the stereotypes of this dance that have developed over the years. These dolls are worth adding to your doll collection if you are a fan of Raqs Sharki. It’s a chance to own a bit of history as this extraordinary dance of spiritual, fluidity and festive movements continue to evolve. Catch the celebration of today’s Raqs Sharqi dolls. Enjoy our slideshow below.
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