Güllübahçe Cloth Dolls

Güllübahçe Cloth Dolls are traditional handmade fabric toys produced entirely by hand in Güllübahçe Neighborhood of Söke district, Aydın province, Türkiye. Reflecting the area’s cultural identity, these dolls were registered as a Protected Geographical Indication under Law No. 6769 on Industrial Property on September 4, 2025, through the Söke Commodity Exchange.

Güllübahçe Cloth Dolls are crafted from local fabrics and natural stuffing materials. Each doll incorporates details reflecting Söke’s traditional clothing styles and artisan heritage. Female figures feature floral-patterned trousers, beads, lace, and embroidery; male figures wear traditional zeybek-style jackets, wide trousers, and Söke-style boots. No sewing machines are used; all production stages are completed entirely by hand.

Facial expressions are drawn or embroidered using fabric pens, embroidery, or painting techniques, giving each doll a unique character. Accessories such as handkerchiefs, motif-printed baskets, jewelry, fezzes, scarves, and belts are added. These dolls serve as both decorative objects and cultural souvenirs.

The dolls include female, male, and child figures. Female figures include characters like “Bride Going to Water,” “Cotton Picking Girl,” “Yörük Girl,” and “Falcı Zekiye.” Male figures include “Groom,” “Cotton Master,” and “Entel Osman.” Child figures include “Little Girl” and “The Roses of Güllübahçe.”

The production of Güllübahçe Cloth Dolls follows eight traditional handcraft stages, each carefully applied to ensure aesthetic and structural integrity.

All production stages must take place within the Söke district, which gives the dolls their reputation. Inspections are conducted at least once a year by a commission coordinated by the Söke Commodity Exchange, including Güllübahçe Village Headman and the Güllübahçe Agricultural Development Cooperative. Inspections focus on material compliance, adherence to production methods, and proper use of the Mahreç mark.