The gosho doll is one of noble descent, and the name means “palace doll,” a reference to the Imperial Palace in Kyoto during the Edo period. In most examples, the clothing is limited to a strict minimum, and it is either painted or pasted on. Gosho ningyo are a uniquely Japanese form, and by tradition, they represent chubby, almost naked little boys with large heads, round bodies and brilliant white skin. They generally show an originality and character which places them in a special category of Japanese dolls. The gosho was created as a presentation doll and was not meant to be a plaything. Although originally the privilege of the aristocracy, gosho dolls gradually became widely popular. In Japan these dolls are considered to be a classic art form and are appreciated as such.

Nara ningyo are cypress wood (hinoki) dolls which are carved using a technique called “itto-bori” or one-knife carving. They are cut in sharp, angular planes and painted in strong, pure matte colors. They usually depict figures from the Noh drama. Noh is a classical Japanese performance form which combines elements of dance, drama, music and poetry into one highly aesthetic stage art. It was performed throughout the country by professional artists, mainly men, who have passed down the art among family members for numerous generations. Noh was a theater of subtle suggestion rather than direct statement, and the mask and stiff sumptuous robe of the actor identified the personage he was representing. His fan was his most important accessory in the stylized posturing, indicating the type of play and the character being portrayed.