This is a beautiful, authentic Japanese Hina-ningyo set manufactured by the prestigious Sanwa Doll’s Company in Shizuoka. This set features the Imperial Couple in traditional Heian-period court attire. The Empress is dressed in multi-layered Juni-hitoe style robes with intricate gold brocade, while the Emperor wears the formal Sokutai with a distinct purple tassel.
Shizuoka is designated by Japan’s Ministry of International Trade & Industry (MITI) as a center for traditional handcrafts, particularly for the lacquerware-style bases and miniature "HINAGU" (doll paraphernalia) included here. The set comes with its original documentation detailing the history of the craft and the "Makie" (elaborate painted pattern) technique used in the region.
Item Specifics
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Brand: Sanwa Doll’s Co., Ltd.
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Origin: Shizuoka, Japan
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Type: Hina-ningyo (Hina Dolls)
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Set Includes: Emperor (Obina), Empress (Mebina), 2 Decorative Bases, 6-Panel Folding Screen (Byobu), Miniature Sword (Katana), Ritual Fan (Hi-ogi), Ceremonial Headgear, 2 Lantern Stands (Bonbori).
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Dimensions: Screen: 22" W x 14" H. Dolls: Approx. 6"–7" H.
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Era: Showa Period (Late 20th Century, approx. 1970s–1980s)
Material: Brocade Fabric, Synthetic Fiber, Plastic, Wood, Paper.
Condition Report: The dolls and accessories are in very good vintage condition. The fabric remains vibrant with no significant fading or tearing. The folding screen is structurally sound with minor age-related spotting (foxing) that adds to its vintage character. All original miniature accessories (sword, fan, hat, and lanterns) are included. Please see photos for exact measurements and detail.
Reference: Japanese Dolls: The Fascinating World of Ningyo by Alan Scott Pate (Tuttle Publishing). Context: See Chapter 4 (Hina-ningyo), which discusses the evolution of the Imperial Couple sets and the regional importance of Shizuoka in the production of doll accessories and lacquerware.
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