Fuku-no-kami [God of Good Fortune]

Inspiration was taken from Kyōgen [crazy speak] a traditional comedy skit that ran between performances in Noh theater.
Among the Kyōgen skits, there is an act called the “God of Fortune.” This doll is based on the main character for this performance—the God of Fortune. It is the scene in which he appears in a burst of laughter.

The model for this doll was Kyōgen actor, Sensaku Shigeyama. The God of Fortune is typically played while wearing a smiling mask, however, nearing his retirement, Sensaku played the role with his own face revealed. People who saw the shows said the personality that came through in his performance was (what they had conceived to be) the spitting image of the God of Fortune himself. It has been remarked that people were moved at how his expressions looked as if they would actually beckon good fortune.
The artist, Sumiko Hoshi saw pictures of his performance of the God of Fortune and was inspired to create a doll in homage to Sensaku.

The Kodai-gire has been chosen appropriately for the subject of this piece and derives from a Noh stage costume. A detail that the artist was adamant on. The eboshi [lit.crow hat] (black-lacquered headgear originally worn by court nobles) has been crafted from wood and colored by first applying washi [Japanese paper] which is then painted over. A beautiful vermilion color was chosen for its connections with fortune and auspiciousness.
Dispelling trouble with his booming laugh and beckoning good fortune to all who hear— this doll is one of great auspiciousness. It is the kind of piece we wish for you to have by your side bringing you good fortune for a long time to come.

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Artist
Sumiko Hoshi

Production year
1998

Era of Kodai-gire
Edo period

Usage of Kodai-gire
kimono

Base
Japanese sumac lacquer coated

Size (Doll)
d 13cm w 22cm h 27cm

Size (Base)
d 22cm w 22cm h 1.5cm

Size (Box)
d 26.5cm w 26cm h 37cm