Antique Japanese Fushimi Doll - Fukakusa Ningyo

Description

Antique Japanese Fushimi ceramic figure. Dolls such as this are thought to have originated in the town of Fushimi near the ancient imperial capital of Kyoto. The figures were first manufactured around the start of the Edo period (1600-1868) and were sold to pilgrims visiting the famous Fushimi Inari Shinto shrine (Shinto is the native religion of Japan). The dolls were thought to possess power from the shrine which would bless the homes of the returning pilgrims, and thus Fushimi dolls have always been appreciated as spiritual gifts. Fushimi dolls are also sometimes called Fukakusa or Inari dolls and are considered one of the top three varieties of traditional Japanese fire clay dolls. Sadly, these dolls are one of Japan's disappearing crafts, as while there were once as many as twenty kilns in Fushimi dedicated to the creation of these figures, there remains today in this town only one.

About the Listed Item

This authentic ceramic Fushimi doll dates from the Japanese Meiji period (1868-1912) and is today in poor condition. The head of the doll was broken off at some point in the past and glued back onto the doll. Also, a large chip was broken off at the back leaving a visible hole at the back. There is a similar, though much smaller, hole at the front. The figure also has some smaller chips as well as marks and scratches from handling. Many paint chips are also missing. The figure wears a darkened patina suggestive of its age and many years of past display.

Size:
Height: 6.0 inches (15.5 cm)
Weight: 5.4 ounces (155 grams)

item code: R3S1B2-0002864
ship code: G3

Category:

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Tags:

• Antique
• Japanese
• Fushimi
• Doll
• Fukakusa
• Ningyo
• Japan
• Tokaido
• Softypapa