The agency of object: the <italic>doppa</italic> as a narrator for a dynamic Uyghur identity.

This article explores the Uyghur <italic>doppa</italic> from the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries to understand Uyghur cultural life and identity. It links the <italic>doppa</italic> to Uyghur history and the evolving sense of ‘Uyghurness’, reflecting its cultural significance today, both in Xinjiang and through the diaspora. The limited scholarly work on the <italic>doppa</italic>, spanning 150 years, suggests a gender bias in documenting female-associated crafts. Ironically, at a time when the <italic>doppa</italic> holds increasing importance, especially with the creation of Doppa Day (5 May), this lack of resources opens up space for creative discourse on Uyghur identity. The study also reveals a tendency to adapt through cultural experiences while maintaining a deep connection to the homeland. Ultimately, this research demonstrates how a small cultural object can provide profound insights into community sensibilities and material culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]