'God dolls' become a huge sensation in Thailand(10 images)
Photographer Alexander Hotz composed a photo essay featuring the haunting Luk Thep "god dolls" and their creator, Mananya "Mama Ning" Boonmee, who says the dolls are "infused with a child's soul." The dolls have roots in ancient Thai child figure that housed the unborn remains of a fetus, intended to bring good fortune.
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Today many Luk Thep dolls have been adopted by celebrities and earnest individuals who believe these factory-manufactured dolls will bring them blessings and wealth. Photo courtesy Alexander Hotz/alexanderhotz.com
A Luk Thep doll Mananya "Mama Ning" Boonmee created in her west Bangkok home and shop. Photo courtesy Alexander Hotz/alexanderhotz.com
Mananya "Mama Ning" Boonmee holds "Petch," the first Luk Thep doll she created in her west Bangkok home and shop. Photo courtesy Alexander Hotz via alexanderhotz.com
One of Mama Ning's Luk Thep creations. Photo courtesy Alexander Hotz/alexanderhotz.com
One of Mama's acolytes holds two Luk Thep dolls. Photo courtesy Alexander Hotz/alexanderhotz.com
“People look for happiness. They want a better life, luck and wealth,” Mama Ning said. “Their happiness is their interaction with their dolls.” Photo courtesy Alexander Hotz/alexanderhotz.com
Chutipat Siripoh, one of Mama's acolytes said her Look Thep or “Child God,” had changed her life. Photo courtesy Alexander Hotz/alexanderhotz.com
"Petch," the first Luk Thep doll created by Mama Ning. Photo courtesy Alexander Hotz/alexanderhotz.com
One of Mama's acolytes who preferred to not give her name pictured holding her Luk Thep. Photo courtesy Alexander Hotz/alexanderhotz.com
“Luk Thep is a doll who is alive.” Mama Ning explained. “I created a soul to live in the doll, and owners can raise them as their own children, taking them out in public, just like a normal kid.” Photo courtesy Alexander Hotz/alexanderhotz.com
