Ningyo: The Art of the Japanese Doll - Tapa dura

"For those who love knowing everything they can about the history of dolls or who have an interest specifically in the history of Japanese dolls, this is a must read. Since reading, I definitely would like to see some of these dolls in person one day. It opened my eyes up to a whole new era of dolls and makes me appreciate and understand the importance of dolls in Japanese culture a little more." -Dolly Confessions blog 'Ningyo explores everything from the nature of materials used to create the dolls, to what they teach us about people from that period, to their spiritual purpose. This beautiful book is a must-have for any fan of Japanese culture. -Sophie's Japan Blog "The author's knowledge is undeniable; his description for each doll featured is in depth. He meticulously examines their history and, in many cases, their craftsmanship. It's a work of art in its own right and is a truly worthy book that belongs in everyone's library." -Diverse Japan blog

Ningyo: The Art of the Japanese Doll features over 250 unique photographs as well as extensive commentary and background history. Japanese dolls (ningyo) have played an important role in Japanese art and culture since its earliest stages of development, as talismanic figures, centerpieces, in elaborate festivals, medical study tools, theater distractions, decorative objects, and avidly collected art forms, as well as childhood playthings. Ningyo: The Art of the Japanese Doll is the most comprehensive book on antique Japanese dolls and figurines published in English. The book focuses on the many types of Japanese dolls: gosho: palace dolls hina: Girl's Day dolls musha: warrior dolls for the Boy's Day Festival isho: fashion dolls The principal forms of the dolls and their history, stylistic development, cultural context, and economic imperatives are discussed against the backdrop of Edo-period society and popular culture. Beautifully detailed color photographs of ningyo drawn from private collections, many of which are published here for the first time, as well as images of related materials selected from celebrated museums and temple collections, such as folding screens, woodblock prints, sculpture, painting ceramics, and textiles, help place the dolls in context. Ningyo: The Art of the Japanese Doll is a fascinating book for anyone interested in Asian doll art and doll collecting.