Passed
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Description
21" (53 cm.) h. 10" x 10" base. The Zashiki karakuri-ningyo (parlor mechanical doll) depicts a seated Doji Drummer with wood head covered in gofun with painted features, wearing silk brocade sleeveless vest and inner kimono with embroidered sleeves, and silk brocade cap; and spinning acrobat wearing Chinese-style clothing of silk crepe and sporting a small cap. When the handle is turned, faint music plays and action begins: the acrobat slowly spins and travels along a track transiting from an elevated pole to a raised stand, while the drummer beats on the drum while his head pivots slightly from left to right. The tableau is arranged on an elaborate wood base with inward-curving legs and bearing longevity images of cranes, pine trees and tortoises, while a papier mache pine tree provides a back drop. Repair to legs of base. Edo Period, circa 1800. Exhibited Mingei International Museum (2005), Morikami Museum (2012). Published Ningyo: The Art of the Japanese Doll, pp. 225, Japanese Dolls: The Fascinating World of Ningyo, p. 192. Beginning in the late 18th century, zashiki-karakuri was a popular home entertainment option for the wealthy, either possessing their own dolls or hiring entertainers who brought examples for the household's viewing pleasure.