

Antique Kobe Daruma Toy
Antique Japanese Kobe Daruma Toy | Kobe Kobi Toy
Age:Meiji Period (1890 - 1900)
Descriptive qualities& condition:
Dimensions: 1-3/8”h x 1-1/4” dia
For sale is a beautiful Antique Japanese bone or Ivory faced Kobe Doll in the form of a Daruma doll from the Meiji Period. This doll has three moving parts, one long eye that pops out, a shorter eye the also extends and a tongue that becomes present when shaken. The Daruma doll is made of carved wood and detailed wearing a cloak and cowl.
Kobe Toys of this type are typically Japanese based on religious beliefs at the time and not much is known about them. This is only one type of toy that was created and hand made during the Meiji period in Japan, and toys which are quite rare and were sold as mementos at the docks where the sailers in port arrived on foreign ships. The Kobe Dolls were sold at souvenir shops on the Motomachi Shopping Street and near Nunobiki Waterfall where tourists gathered. Their jocular facial expressions attracted the attention of Kobekko and tourists.
Condition: Exceptional condition exhibiting an aged patination and meticulous care, no scratches, no damage with minimal imperfections related to daily use. The two eyes and tongue pop at different extensions which is most likely because of use and age. “As is” meaning the object has not been cleaned or restored and retains the original craftsmanship.