Hakata ningyō

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Hakata ningyō(博多人形, "Hakata Doll", Hakata ningyō^?) are traditional Japanese clay dolls, originally from the city of Fukuoka.

[edit] History

Kuroda bushi (Hakata ningyo)

There are several theories as to the origin of Hakata dolls. According to recent academic research, the primary origin country of origin is China. In fact, several archaeological evidences like simple biscuit fired toys have been found after excavation of Hakata. On the other hand, according to the legend, its history dates back to the beginning of the 17th century when Hakata town was ruled by Kuroda Nagamasa. A roof tile craftsman called Souhiti Masaki, gifted clay dolls to the load Kuroda. At this age, Hakata dolls were called as Hakata suyaki ningyō ("博多素焼人形", "Hakata unglazed doll", Hakata suyaki ningyō^?). Besides, Hakata has a famous festival which named Hakata Gion Yamakasa. In this well-known festival, its participants pull gorgeously decorated Ningyō Yamakasa floats. Although the floats themselves are not made of clay but wood, it is believed that the method of making these floats strongly influenced the Hakata doll.

The changing of “simple biscuit fired toys” to beautiful artworks occurred in the end of the 19th century. Master craftsman Rokusaburō Shirouzu began to study colouring, balance of human frame and other modern artistic skills under instruction by Itusyo Yada who was an oil painter. After then, Hakata dolls were crafted more realistically. As the result of the efforts of Rokusaburō Shirouzu and his pupils (e.g. Yoichi Kojima and Kihei Harada), Yoichi Kojima was awarded the gold prize in the Paris World's Exposition held in 1925. Kihei Harada and Yoichi Kojima were awarded the silver prize in the same world exposition.

After the Second World War ended, Japan was occupied by the United States Army. The United States Army took many Hakata dolls as souvenirs back to America. This was how the Hakata doll gained worldwide fame, and the Hakata doll thereafter was exported to many countries. At the same time, the Hakata doll became a well-known souvenir article domestically, and its bad quality that was produced factory simultaneously closed appear. Although the image disappeared now a few tradition craftwork technician is conveying their skill in the near future.