Exhibition Room 2　Japan's Ningyo from the Collection

Gosho Ningyo

Gosho ningyo are characterized by large heads and white skin; with a one-to-three head-to-body ratio, they represent children’s forms.They were mainly made in Kyoto.As the mizuhiki, decorative paper cords used on gifts and at special occasions, often shown on their foreheads suggest, these ningyo were used in gift exchanges at celebrations.That ritual implication overlaps with their forms, which express the healthy beauty that is the ideal image of a child in Japanese eyes.Equipped with clothing and accessories, gosho ningyo also stand for Noh or Kyogen characters or noble heroes.