The plaggona (πλαγγόνα) was originally a religious idol. Some of the earliest plaggones (πλαγγόνες in plural) date back to 7th century BC. They were initially made out of clay, but other materials were also used, such as wax, ivory or wood and they had a female form. Their clothes were usually painted on, but sometimes, girls sewed little fabric outfits for their dolls. They had painted faces and intricate hair made out of plaited string and beaded earrings. They were often accompanied by small items, such as vases, tables etc. The first dolls were immobile, but, gradually, as they evolved, they had moving legs, and then arms, too. Their limbs were often moved by attaching wires to them – like modern day marionettes – and they were called nevrospasta (νευρόσπαστα). The movable arms and legs were attached to the main body of the doll with string. Plaggones were made in ceramics studios, originally by hand, but later on, by 500BC, they used moulds. The role of the plaggona was twofold. On the one hand, it was a toy, meant to generate happiness and entertainment, but they were also used as a tool to educate and prepare young girls for their future duties as women and mothers, a small introduction to what they could expect when they grew older. Girls were very attached to their dolls. Of course, the role of women in society has changed since then, but back in antiquity, this preparation was of vital importance. If a girl died before she was married, her plaggona was buried with her. Prior to her wedding day, she had to sacrifice her doll to the goddess Artemis.