Antique Japanese Dolls
Antique Japanese dolls are also referred to as Ningyo which means human figure dolls in Japanese. These dolls were used for many reasons including as toys, religious figures, ornaments, and good luck charms. There are many different styles of these dolls and many survive in excellent condition.
The Hina Ningyo is one of the most famous of antique Japanese dolls. These dolls traditionally come in set of fifteen and were displayed in a specific set up on the celebration Hina-matsuri or girl’s day. The figures are representations of the imperial court including a lord and lady, ladies-in-waiting, five musicians, ministers, and footmen. They are clothes in rich silk brocades and are highly popular.
Another popular grouping of antique Japanese dolls is the Mush Ningyo which is the warrior dolls. Most of these dolls are dressed in military clothing and represent the spirit of the samurai. They will often be a depiction of an actual historical figure and come complete with weaponry.
The Takeda Ningyo is a series of dolls that portray the rich kabuki culture of Japan. These dolls often come twisted into various poses that are supposed to represent the talent of kabuki actors. These dolls were most popular at the end of the 1800’s and really reflect the entertainment of the kabuki.
The Gosho Ningyo is a style of Japanese dolls that show the fun loving nature of small children. These dolls were traded among Japanese royalty. They are all depictions of small chubby boys between the ages of three and five. They are one of the better known of Japanese dolls and highly coveted.
No matter which style of antique Japanese dolls you are looking to collect you will find a rich and colorful tapestry of choices. Many of the ancient Japanese dolls are still in excellent condition and you will not be disappointed adding this to your collection.
Current Antique Japanese Dolls Items on Ebay:
LOT OF 16 Antique - Mod Japanese Kokeshi Wood Nodding Nesting Dolls Collection
 | US $32.00 (0 Bid) End Date: Sunday May-20-2012 8:49:23 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list |
Antique Miniature Toys From Japan 19th C. Japanese Couple Bisque Baby Dolls
 | US $120.00 End Date: Sunday Jun-17-2012 23:31:13 PDT Buy It Now for only: US $120.00 Buy it now | Add to watch list |
ANTIQUE JAPANESE DOLL COLLECTION ---NO RESERVE---
 | US $400.00 (0 Bid) End Date: Friday May-25-2012 15:52:12 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list |
Japanese Antique Dolls by Jill Gribbin and David Gribbin (1984, Hardcover)
 | US $99.99 End Date: Friday May-25-2012 7:08:38 PDT Buy It Now for only: US $99.99 Buy it now | Add to watch list |
Antique Japanese Old Koheshi Folk Craft Ningyp Dolls Figurine
 | US $18.45 (0 Bid) End Date: Thursday May-24-2012 21:07:18 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list |
Antique/Vintage Assorted Miniature Items for Japanese Dolls
 | US $9.99 (1 Bid) End Date: Thursday May-24-2012 19:18:32 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list |