Engaging Isho-Ningyo of the Warrior Monk Benkei, Edo Period

Live Auction

13" (33 cm.) Isho-ningyo of the warrior monk Musashibo Benkei (d. 1189), depicted in animated standing pose with left shoulder raised, head tilted, and right foot thrust forward, face and heads of toso (wood composite) covered in a red-pigmented gofun with painted details including feet painted blue to simulate tabi, wearing birodo black velvet outer kimono with sleeves thrown back to reveal chirimen silk crepe under kimono, secured at waist with obi, papered gauze hakama trousers with purple silk crepe cuffs, and with arsenal of weapons strapped to his back, arrow in right hand, and two long swords tucked in at hip with red scabbard mounted on a wood base. Replaced textiles on forearms, repair to right ankle, wear to birodo velvet, Edo Period, 19th century. In clear imitation of takeda-ningyo, the doll incorporates many elements of the more prominent tradition, with dynamic pose, black velvet textiles, grimacing features.