'Barbie Virgin Mary' and 'Jesus Ken' creators receive death threats

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This Barbie is . . . about to be crucified.

For some, seeing the “Barbie” movie was a religious experience, and it may have inspired two artists to turn their dolls into literal religious figures.

Dolls dubbed “Barbie Virgin Mary” and “Jesus Ken” appeared in a toy shop in Buenos Aires Province, Argentina.

Created by local artists Emiliano Pool Paolini and Marianela Perelli, the religious-themed products (which have no connection or affiliation with the original Barbie doll created by Mattel), have resulted in threats from all over the world after photos of them were posted online.

“Frankly, we don’t understand why we’re being attacked,” Paolini — or “Pool” as he’s known — told Jam Press

“Religion has always depicted virgins as the most beautiful women,” he added. “Today, the most beautiful woman is Barbie.”

The spiritual Barbie first appeared as part of the artists’ “Barbie: The Plastic Religion” exhibit in 2014, but the recent juggernaut success of Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie” movie, starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, motivated the duo to relaunch their controversial collection.

The religious figurine sparked outrage. Jam Press
The religious dolls created by Emiliano Pool Paolini and Marianela Perelli weren’t appreciated by all — even if the world does have Barbie fever. Jam Press
Locals found the religious-themed Barbie dolls sacrilegious. Jam Press

At the time of the exhibition, the artistic pair angered locals and received serious death threats for using the dolls to represent important religious figures, including Catholic saints and various representations of the Virgin Mary.

“They have misinterpreted our work,” Pool insisted. “Each piece was made out of pure love and deep respect.”

At least one toy shop in Argentina has allegedly agreed to stock some models, following the pair’s decision to remake their infamous religious dolls.

They have 33 religious figures in their collection. Jam Press

“The reception to the revived collection is going well,” Pool said, saying they have plans to showcase their dolls in December.

“We will take part in an art show with a stand dedicated to Plastic Religion where we will present 33 Barbie dolls, among other artwork,” he said.

However, images of the revived collection have seen a mixed response on social media.

“An international scandal,” one person snarked.

“The Catholic religion only? I don’t see Muhammad or Buddha,” another pointed out.

“Seeking fame in an infamous way, what a disappointment,” another user wrote, with another writing the artists should: “Respect the Sacred faith!”

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