Member Program: The Forgotten Story of the Syrian Dolls
Join Ella Jones, curatorial assistant for The Textile Museum Collection, as she uncovers the forgotten history of three Syrian costume dolls acquired by the museum in 1967. This virtual lecture examines the dolls’ previously unstudied provenance and explores their relationship to broader themes of Orientalism and Western tourism culture in the mid-20th century. Drawing on new research, archival records and recent scholarship, this presentation highlights the importance of historical dolls to the study of global dress and cultural exchange.
About Ella Jones
Ella Jones has served as the curatorial assistant for The Textile Museum Collection since 2023. She holds a M.A. in decorative arts and design history (concentration in costume and textile studies) from GW, where she produced her thesis, “Crisis and Couture: The Cultural and Commercial Influence of Fashion Dolls During Periods of Sociopolitical and Economic Strife.” Jones also holds a B.A. in studio art and art history from Kenyon College. Prior to joining the museum staff, she completed internships at the Smithsonian Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, the National Museum of Women in the Arts and the DAR Museum.
How to Participate
This program is for museum members and will take place on Zoom. If you are already a member, please register in advance to reserve your spot. If you are not currently a member, you can join or renew online.
About Member Programs
Support the museum and enjoy access to special members-only programs, including curator talks and behind-the-scenes tours. Browse upcoming programs