This charming Hakata doll (博多人形) features a young girl mid-play, gently tilting her head while holding a jump rope in both hands. Dressed in a crisp white kimono decorated with adorable motifs of green and yellow turtles (a traditional symbol of longevity and happiness in Japan), she radiates innocence and joy.
Hakata ningyō (博多人形) are traditional Japanese clay dolls that originated in the Hakata district of Fukuoka, located on the island of Kyushu. Their history dates back to the 17th century during the Edo period, when local artisans began crafting simple, unglazed clay figures for use in festivals and religious rituals.
Traditionally made from clay, each doll is shaped, dried, and hand-painted with care. Common subjects include women in kimono, children at play, kabuki actors, and figures from history or folklore. These dolls are not just decorative items but are also imbued with symbolic meaning. They are often given as gifts to convey wishes for happiness, good health, or prosperity.
In 1976, Hakata ningyō were officially recognized by the Japanese government as a Traditional Craft (伝統的工芸品), a testament to their cultural importance and the skill required to create them. Today, many artisans in Fukuoka continue to preserve and innovate this art form, passing down techniques from one generation to the next. Through their enduring beauty and connection to everyday life, Hakata dolls remain a cherished part of Japan’s cultural heritage.
Size: 13 x 11 x 20cm
