Description
Vintage 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 mid to late Japanese Showa period (1926-1989) and is today in fair condition with no cracks though the doll does have some chips as well as marks and scratches from handling. The figure may have once held an item in the right hand though this item is now missing. The doll wears a darkened patina suggestive of its age and many years of past display.
Size:
Height (including display stand): 3.3 inches (8.5 cm)
Weight: 2.0 ounces (58 grams)
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item code: R1S4-0003283
ship code: L1650
