Amish Art and Images

January 30, 2007 · updated February 15, 2022

Amish dolls, with no faces to avoid creating "graven images." Violette79

The Amish reject depictions of human and animal figures (Amish dolls are traditionally faceless) and avoid being photographed because they believe such things are graven images in violation of the Second Commandment. It also comes too close to vanity to allow one's portrait to be taken.

Non-figurative art is acceptable among the Amish so long as it does not constitute vanity. The best-known example of Amish art is the handmade quilt, which typically features multi-colored geometrical designs.

Quilts and other Amish products such as handcrafted furniture are sometimes sold to outsiders to support the community and are widely prized for their quality and craftsmanship.