Richly textured fabrics form into his protective gloves and armor which he carries slung over his practice sword.
The variety and quality of fabrics are evident in this close-up view as is his distinctive hair style.
181. Fine Carved Wooden Gosho as Kendo Martial Arts Student Attributed to Maruhei, Circa 1930 10â€? (25 cm.) Carved wooden head with gofun complexion, glass eyes, feathered painting of hair stippling around the forehead, bald spot on crown with silk crepe cover, black silk fiber hair with topknot behind bald spot, and wooden hands and feet. The gosho depicts a young martial arts student wearing a banded kimono with scroll foliate designs, purple silk collar with sacred gem symbols, unusual horizontal style hakama trousers, and simulated leather tabiad sandals. He carries two long swords at his hip, and has a kendo practice sword held over his left shoulder, gloves and protective armor slung at his back, and is posed on original chip-carved base indicative of Maruhei. Excellent condition. Showa era, circa 1930. The dollmaking firm of Maruhei was founded in Kyoto in 1779, and for 250 years have continued to create prestige ningyĹ? of the highest order, winning prestigious awards and creating commission pieces for the imperial family. $1800/2500
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A profile view of the ningyĹ?.