Jiai [Parental Affection]

Inspiration for this doll was taken from a baby who has just started to crawl.
With an expression full of curiosity, this baby is ready to explore a new world awaiting them. The scene of a baby so young it has yet to grow out all its hair, attempting to move and explore all by itself instils in us a sense of vitality and power. This is a doll crafted with the same emotions of hope, expectation, and affection that a parent feels towards their growing child.

The Kodai-gire used for this costume is made from a glossy fabric called figured satin. The luxurious fabric which is supple and soft gently wraps around the baby. The pattern represents the Edo period (1603-1868) and is decorated with many iconic images of the time like pine, bamboo, plum and the crane. This pattern was chosen to symbolize the same happiness felt by a parent on their child’s birthday.

Not just the costume but the cushion underneath the baby has also been made from Kodai-gire. This Kodai-gire has been created from crepe, a kind of silk, for a cushion of outstandingly high quality.

The baby’s hair that has been tied up in a cute bunch, is made of silk thread. By having realistic hair growing right out of their head rather than just painting it on, the baby’s cuteness is really emphasized.

The artist created this doll with love and their wish for children to be raised healthy and happy. This doll would be an excellent gift to show your support to a child’s growth or to perhaps celebrate a child’s birth.

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Artist
Teiko Hoshi

Production year
2000's

Era of Kodai-gire
Edo period

Usage of Kodai-gire
kimono、cushion

Base
Japanese sumac lacquer coated

Size (Doll)
d 25cm w 29cm h 13cm

Size (Base)
d 30cm w 45cm h 1.5cm

Size (Box)
d 34cm w 50cm h 22cm