A Vintage Hagoita (羽子板), a traditional Japanese decorative paddle used in Hanetsuki (羽根突き), a game similar to badminton, played during the New Year. Over time, hagoita have become more of an ornamental item, symbolizing good luck and protection against evil spirits.
This particular hagoita features an elaborate relief-style (押絵, oshie) decoration, where fabric and padding are used to create a three-dimensional effect. The design showcases a beautifully dressed Bijin (美人, elegant woman) wearing an ornate kimono with intricate embroidery and vibrant orange tones. Her hairstyle and headdress, adorned with delicate floral ornaments, suggest she may represent a historical or theatrical figure, possibly from Kabuki or traditional court culture.
The paddle is presented in its original decorative box, which is red with repeating patterns of stylized fans. The label (御羽子板, “Go-Hagoita”) indicates it is a specially selected piece (特選, tokusen). This hagoita is likely meant as a New Year’s ornament or a gift to bring happiness, good fortune, and protection for the coming year, following the Japanese tradition of displaying hagoita during Oshōgatsu (New Year celebrations).
