Miniature Japanese Daimyo Gyoretsu Procession (item #281889)

Japanese and Chinese antiques and art from B & C

Miniature Japanese Daimyo Gyoretsu Procession

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All Items: Vintage Arts:Regional Art:Asian:Japanese:Dolls: Pre 1970: item # 281889

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B & C Antiques
P. O. Box 291
Derby, CT 06418
203-929-7312

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$175

Miniature Japanese Daimyo Gyoretsu Procession

This unusual tableau contains a large grouping of miniature Japanese dolls, called “keshi ningyo,” depicting a procession called a Daimyo Gyoretsu or seasonal pilgrimage. Mid-20th century. These tiny hand painted figures -- all less than one inch (2.5 cm) in height -- are made of plaster or clay which has been formed around a metal pin which has been inserted and glued into a silk covered base. There are 24 figures walking and 2 figures on horseback, 3 drummers, 4 flag bearers, and various other figures. The wooden stand becomes the bottom of a signed kiri wood box which serves as a protective lid when the tiny dolls are stored. (For two similar, albeit earlier, examples, see Figure 37 on pages 130-131 of JAPANESE ANTIQUE DOLLS by Jill and David Gribbin and the one on display in the Boone Collection in the Field Museum in Chicago.)

Various kinds of miniature dolls (keshi) have been made for years in Japan, including miniatures derived from larger forms. In addition, there are some types of dolls that were exclusively produced to a very small scale, of which the most common are these little plaster figures molded around pins called keshi. Only averaging about a half an inch high, these figures were mounted in groups on oblong wooden stands to create tiny scenes, a favorite theme being the Kabuki play Chushingura. Miniature doll scenes are still made today, but older ones can be recognized by the authenticity of their materials. Old scenes are mounted on a stand of unfinished wood, and the pin-like legs of the dolls are inserted into padded silk. More modern versions are mounted on lacquered or plastic bases. The figures are in pristine condition, as the procession has been closed in its box and safely stored for a number of years. This piece would make a most unusual addition to any Japanese doll collection. Dimensions: Figures are all less than 1” high, box is 13 ¾” x 1 ¾” x 2” high.