Large emperor and empress dolls

Pair of large and very refined hinamatsuri ひな祭り (Girls’ Festival) dolls of the emperor (obina) with a katana 刀 (sword) and the empress (mebina) holding a fan. Both are wearing extravagant brocade silk kimonos with embroidered details. Their faces are painted with elegant noble-like features and their eyes inlaid with glass. The soft skin is created by applying repeated layers of the pigment called gofun 胡粉, which is the refined powder of the itabo oyster (Ostrea denselamellosa). The emperor is wearing a black eboshi 烏帽子 (headgear worn by nobles) and the empress is wearing an elaborate crown. Both are placed on a raised tatami-like platform.

This pair is known as the imperial dolls (内裏雛dairi-bina), and are placed on the top tier of the tiered Hinamatsuri doll display. The words dairi means “imperial palace”.

Both in a very good original condition with some minimal wear conform age. Please look at the photos for a condition reference.

Dimension:
Emperor:
Height 45 cm, Width 40 cm, Depth 22 cm.
Empress:
Height 35 cm, Width 38.5 cm, Depth 38 cm.
Bases:
Height 9.5 cm, Width 50.5 cm, Depth 25.5 cm.

Period: Japan – Early Meiji period (Second half 19th century).

Hinamatsuri 雛祭り is a traditional Japanese festival celebrated on March 3rd, known as Girls’ Day or Doll’s Day. It honors young girls and their well-being, wishing for their happiness and success. Families display intricate tiered doll sets called hina ningyo, representing the emperor, empress, and court attendants, arranged on multiple platforms covered in red fabric. Festivities include special foods, like chirashi-zushi and sakuramochi, and prayers for the girls’ future.

When shipped we will add a certificate of authenticity.