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Vintage Japanese Folk Toy Sasano Wood Carving Hawk browse these categories for related items... All Items: Vintage Arts:Regional Art:Asian:Japanese:Folk Art: Pre 1960: item # 866486 Please refer to our stock # 4-278 when inquiring.
B & C Antiques P. O. Box 291 Derby, CT 06418 203-929-7312 Guest Book $125 |
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This type of Japanese wooden folk toy, called a “sasano-bori,” is a unique carving of a hawk (“otaka-poppo”). Originating from Yamagata Prefecture, it dates to the mid-20th century. This folk toy hawk was hand carved from a single block of wood and then sparingly hand painted with shades of black, gray and yellow to delineate its features. The long delicate shavings that comprise the wings and tail were cut up towards the body of the bird and left in a natural curl. There is an inscription written on the lower side of the base. It is most unusual to see Sasano-bori of this size as they are typically much smaller. This particular carving technique which created long curling shavings was said to have been used during the construction of Sasano Kannon temple in 807 or learned from the Ainu tribe who were still living in this area long ago. In the late 18th century, the feudal lord of Yonezawa encouraged the production of folk toys to supplement the income of the farmers during the long harsh winters. These toys were sold at temple festivals to be presented to the gods or taken home as lucky charms and souvenirs. These original sculptures are a striking example of what can be done with a single cylindrical piece of wood, colors sparingly applied, and a heavy hatchet-like knife. The first figurines were mostly of hawks, but today all kinds of animals and exotic birds are made. At Sasano, the village which gave its name to this type of carving, there is still an annual festival at the Temple of Sasano Kannon on January 17th, where birds and animals of many different shapes and sizes are sold as symbols of good luck. (See Sasano-Bori on Page 32 of “Japanese Folk Toys: The Playful Arts” by Lea Baten.) CONDITION is excellent; all the curled shavings are intact. The figure lists slightly because of the way the bottom was cut. DIMENSIONS: 15 ¾” (40 cm) high, 2 3/8” (6 cm) diameter at base. |
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