This vintage pair of いづめこ人形 (Izumeko Ningyō) features two hand-crafted cloth dolls dressed in traditional attire, each with a white face, gentle features, and soft fabric body made from vintage kimono textiles. Originating from the Tōhoku region, particularly Miyagi and Fukushima Prefectures, these dolls represent a time-honored folk tradition.
The larger doll, adorned in vibrant red and gold, with short black hair and a warm expression, traditionally symbolizes the older sibling or caregiver. The smaller one, with a topknot hairstyle and dressed in softer tones, represents the younger child. These dolls were originally used as talismans for child-rearing, crafted by mothers and grandmothers as protective charms for babies—tucked into cradles or gifted to wish for healthy growth and safety.
The name “Izumeko” is said to derive from “izume” (to wrap), as the child is nestled securely in swaddling fabric, evoking the love and protection of family. Perfect as a collector’s item or nostalgic interior decoration, this pair of Izumeko dolls offers a tender glimpse into the heartfelt customs of Japanese folk culture.
