Rare, Large Pair of Edo Ningyo, Empress Jingu
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Directory: Antiques: Regional Art: Asian: Japanese: Dolls: Pre 1900: Item # 1258437
Directory: Antiques: Regional Art: Asian: Japanese: Dolls: Pre 1900: Item # 1258437
Please refer to our stock # 0661 when inquiring.
$13,500.00
Japanese Late Edo Period very large rare pair of Musha Ningyo representing Empress Jingū (Jingū Kōgō) and the old minister Takenouchi no Sukune. He is holding the baby
Ōjin (a son of the Empress Jingū who later became Emperor Ōjin) and is seated on a
camp stool. These are among the largest examples and are of the highest quality and
artistic workmanship. The heads and hands are carved of wood, covered with many
layers of tinted gofun (oyster shell lacquer), creating exceptionally expressive faces, with glass
eyes and silk hair. They are dressed in sumptuous silk brocade costumes. The armor is
made of lacquered paper with gilt metal fittings. Empress Jingū is standing
regally, hair tied back by a band, holding a fan and a bow, and a
quiver with arrows. Both have swords. Altogether an extraordinary presence. According to the Nihonshoki, Jingū was empress from 201 A.D.
to 269 A.D. She is known for her invasion of Korea while she was bearing her child. In order to delay her childbirth, a piece of rock was wrapped to her stomach. Jingu 29.5 inches (75cm), Takenouchi 27 inches (68.5cm), Ojin 10 inches (25.5cm).
