China has long struggled to improve its image, especially in the West. It may be scoring some victories now.

China has long struggled to improve its image, especially in the West. It may be scoring some victories now.

To some, the dolls, known as reborn dolls, provide comfort, escape or just plain fun. But politicians across Brazil have tried to pass bills banning the dolls from public spaces.

© Priscila Ribeiro for The New York Times