Early 19th Century Japanese Isho-Ningyo Representing Hotei

Live Auction

9" (23 cm.) Carved wooden one piece head and torso with shell white (gofun) finish and painted features,the face well-rendered with a beatific expression,arms attached by wires,rudimental structure for legs,wearing layered silk brocade robes with a repeated butterfly pattern,open to the waist exposing his portly belly,and secured with a thick silk tie cord,holding a fan (replaced) in his left hand,depicted standing on a fabric covered base. Condition:overall very good,soiling to gofun and loss of gofun at hands,old small repair to belly,fading of textiles. Comments: Japanese,Edo period,early 19th century,Hotei,representing the God of Mirth,one of the seven gods of good fortune (shichigofukujin) that were a particularly popular isho-ningyo subject matter during the late Edo period. Value Points: early 200 year old doll with wonderful depiction,original costume.