Amusing Kobe-ningyo (Mechanical Doll) of a Samurai, Meiji Era

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The rare standing type Kobe-ningyo (Mechanical Doll), crafted of tsuge boxwood, and having round head with inset bone eyes, depicts a samurai warrior with armor cuirass and thigh guards, with carved details to simulate lacing, latches, obi belt as well as layers of kimono with sleeve ends drawn tight, hakama trousers closed at knees, shin guards and heavy boots, holding a signal fan in his right hand and a sword in his left, and with kanmuri court-style cap with bone finial. His tongue pops in and out, Meiji Era, late 19th century, Published in Japanese Dolls: The Fascinating World of Ningyo, p. 309. There are three general types of Kobe-ningyo: wheeled, box, and free standing. The free-standing types are the rarest, requiring the most handling. Rather than a knob or wheel-activation, the delightful and amusing effects are achieved by holding the figure and tilting it this way or that.