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Boys' Festival Small Sitting Gosho Doll

Sale price$156.00 USD

In stock over 10 units

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Description

This adorable doll is made in the image of a gosho doll which was a type of doll favored by the court nobles of ancient Kyoto. These dolls are characterized by their large, rounded heads, and chubby little bodies which reflect the aesthetic valued during the Edo period (1603–1868 CE).

The sitting doll is posing with short legs stretched out and his arms cutely reaching out for his helmet. His translucent white skin is beautifully created with unglazed porcelain lending an air of realism. 

The green warrior helmet worn by the doll is decorated with plum blossoms and seigaiha "wave" patterns, symbolizing good fortune. The serene and innocent expression and other decorations are all hand-painted by skilled craftsmen at Hataman Touen's studio. His red apron and neatly tied ribbon add to the loveliness of this small doll.

Originally, on Tango-no-Sekku (also known as Boys' Day), one of the five seasonal festivals from ancient China, it was customary to display decorations and offerings to drive away evil spirits and wish for good health. And following this custom, dolls with warrior helmets or just the helmets are now displayed in homes to wish for the healthy growth of children.  

Hataman Touen Boys' Festival Imari Nabeshima Ware Small Sitting Gosho Doll - MUSUBI KILN - Quality Japanese Tableware and Gift
Boys' Festival Small Sitting Gosho Doll Sale price$156.00 USD
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May Festival Dolls are dolls used to celebrate Boys' Day. The tradition of Boys' Day originated in the Nara period (710 CE - 794 CE). By the Edo period (1603 CE - 1868 CE), May 5th had become a holiday and was established as Tango-no-Sekku. During this period, the festival became widely celebrated among the common people of Edo, and dolls began to be used as decorations.

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