“Akabana” Formed with toso over wooden core and covered with paper

Description

• Category
  Dolls
• Materials
  Tōso, Japanese paper (washi)
• Dimensions
  H 34.0 cm
• Year of creation
  2024
• Rarity
  Unique

Techniques Used

Tōso dolls

Tōso dolls (tōso ningyō) are made of a modeling compound called tōso (a mixture of paulownia sawdust and paste) attached to a core of solid paulownia. Tōso can be freely fashioned while soft to produce all manner of forms. The molded forms are thoroughly dried before use to ensure that they won’t warp.

Kamibari

“Pasted paper.” Designs are created by applying dyed washi paper.

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Awards received

• The 71st Japan Traditional Kōgei Exhibition (2024)
• Praemium Imperiale Award

Comment on Award

In Okinawa, way beyond the ocean, there is a utopia where the gods live called Niraikanai. People used to believe that all the blessings they received came from this utopia. Their prayers were expressed with gestures, their words of prayer became songs, and this eventually became a performing art. I expressed such belief and prayers that have been succeeded from our ancestors until today in the form of this Ryukyu dancer. This award has encouraged me very much, and has given me courage to continue with my work. Thank you very much.
(from the Japan Kōgei Association newsletter)

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