An unusual piece of Japanese folk art depicting a Woman in a Mo Skirt (裳の婦人), inspired by the clothing and female figures of Japan's ancient Kofun period (古墳時代). Originating from Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture, in the Chūgoku region of Japan, this charming clay figurine celebrates the country's ancient cultural heritage through expressive traditional craftsmanship.
The Kofun period, dating approximately from the 3rd to the late 6th century CE, was an important era in ancient Japanese history, named after the monumental burial mounds known as kofun.
One of the most distinctive artistic traditions of this period was the creation of Haniwa (埴輪), terracotta figures placed on and around burial mounds. These sculptures represented people, animals, houses, and ceremonial objects, offering valuable insights into ancient Japanese society.
Hiroshima Prefecture, situated in western Japan's Chūgoku region, has a rich tradition of local crafts and clay figurines known as tsuchi ningyō (土人形). This piece combines historical inspiration with a charming, naïve artistic style. Its expressive silhouette, earthy material, and lively painted patterns make it a distinctive example of Japanese folk-inspired decorative art.
