Maryam, The Palestinian Doll is a labour of love and an homage to the Palestinian woman, mother, wife and daughter who has endured hardship and strife throughout the occupation f Palestine. She is the unknown soldier, the unsung heroine.
The aim for Maryam The Palestinian Doll is to represent all cities and villages in Palestine. So far Maryam represents Ramallah, Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Nablus, Gaza and Hebron.
For every city so far, there has been extensive research done by Zein Khasawneh on the more appropriate attire for Maryam. There are always a number of dresses representing a single city. Zein considers the design, the possibility of its application on a doll size, in addition to the aesthetic element that also plays a part in the decision process.
The doll itself is bespoke, made specifically for Maryam, with Middle Eastern features, and a variety of skin tones, reflective of our region. The face is expertly painted by an international artist, with lashes added to the eyes to create a more expressive face. The natural hair used for the doll is purposely long, which allows for a variety of beautiful hairstyles. Take note for example of the forward braid created for Maryam of Ramallah. The coin headband adorning it, creating a truly exceptional and realistic style.
Authenticity of Maryam
Maryam’s hairstyle, headdress and clothing is designed and executed by renowned traditional fashion designer Zein Khasawneh. Zein has extensive knowledge and experience in both the world of Palestinian tatreez and fashion design making her the perfect partner on the Maryam project. She brings to Maryam not only a unique eye for design and accessory creation, but also a passion for doll-making that is evident in the finished products
Zein Khasawneh
Founder and Creative Director of the ZeinK label, Zein Khasawneh is a name to know in the world of luxury embroidered kaftans. Her 20 year old eponymous label has dressed some of the most important women of the Arab world, from Queen Noor of Jordan to Sheikha Moza of Qatar in addition to a number of high profile international personalities. She has also forayed in the world of childrenswear, creating a number of unique ‘modern-traditional’ collections for girls. Zein Khasawneh is also owner of the ZeinK concept store at the Four Seasons Hotel in Amman Jordan. The boutique is an eclectic mix of world renowned luxury home accessory and clothing brands such as L’Objet, Anna New York and Erdem.
Zein Khasawneh spends her time between London, Kuwait and Amman. On this project she has collaborated, for authenticity purposes, with Ms. Amal Nashashibi, an authority on Palestinian embroidery for decades now. Amal resides in Jerusalem, Palestine.