A vintage shikishi card features a beautifully hand-painted depiction of a Hokosan Hariko doll, a traditional papier-mâché figure from Gunma Prefecture, known for its innocent expression and auspicious symbolism. Rendered in a simple yet emotive brush style, the doll is dressed in a vibrant red garment with black and white accents, a palette that evokes both warmth and festivity. Her gentle smile and rounded form embody traditional Japanese aesthetics and good fortune.
The poetic inscription about dance and music enhances the piece’s nostalgic atmosphere, echoing the joyful, folkloric charm often associated with festival dolls and children’s traditions in rural Japan.
The Hokosan Hariko doll is not only a regional craft but also a talisman believed to bring protection, happiness, and healthy growth for children. Displayed on this shikishi card, it becomes a collectible artwork that merges folk culture with expressive brushwork perfect for those who appreciate Japanese regional artistry and poetic sentiment.
