“Boneca preta... só por encomenda” : história das práticas, das representações e das experiências das bonequeiras de São Cristóvão (SE)

Abstract

Sergipe is shaped by Iberian, Indigenous, and African influences, evident across all spheres of society—particularly in the cultural realm, encompassing both tangible and intangible heritage. In light of this, the present study analyzes the practices, representations, and experiences of the dollmakers from the *Sala dos Saberes e Fazeres* (Room of Knowledge and Craft) in the historic center of São Cristóvão. These artisans create dolls that depict the dances and festivals of Sergipe, featuring diverse colors, costumes, sizes, and shapes; their creativity, family and cultural heritage, and the significance of living art in their lives are revealed in every piece produced and sold. The research draws upon the theoretical foundations of microhistory, as developed by Carlo Ginzburg (1990), and Roger Chartier’s concepts of representation, practice, and appropriation (1988). Additionally, the study employs oral history methodology—involving the collection and analysis of recorded testimonies from the doll-makers—alongside a bibliographic review. We recognize that the contributions of this group of artists are fundamental to the preservation and construction of Sergipe’s tangible and intangible culture, yet their traditions face the risk of being lost due to a lack of young people willing to learn and develop the art of doll-making.