Emperor doll 男雛 (obina) - Brocade

An antique emperor doll 男雛 (obina), originally forming part of a set of imperial dolls 内裏雛 (dairi-bina) displayed during the Hinamatsuri 雛祭り (Girls’ Festival). The seated figure is dressed in layered court robes, with a brown brocade outer garment woven with floral motifs and contrasting textile layers visible below. The finely modelled face is finished in gofun 胡粉 (shell paste), with delicately painted features and glass-inlaid eyes. The hands are carefully carved and positioned formally before the body. Imperial dolls such as this were traditionally placed on the uppermost tier of a Hinamatsuri display, representing the Emperor and Empress in the setting of the imperial court. Period: Japan – Bakumatsu period (Mid-19th century) Dimensions: Height 31.5 cm, Width 36 cm, Depth 19 cm. In good antique condition with traces of wear consistent with age. There are losses to the hair, as commonly seen on dolls of this type, together with wear and some losses to the textiles. Please refer to the photographs for a clear impression of the condition.

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