Teiko Hoshi’s Signature Work
The model for the Kanyaō doll was a Chinese soldier from the Eastern Jin Dynasty (317-420), who was also a musician; especially famous for their flute playing. It is said that the beautiful melodies he played on his flute were so enchanting that he was often begged by people for performances. In homage, this doll has a flute tucked into their waistband and has been given a pose made to instil the image of him playing a tune on the flute. The distant and thoughtful gaze he has been given is also a particularly striking feature of this doll.
The Kodai-gire used for this doll has been fashioned as a Chinese official’s garments from the Qing Dynasty (1616-1912) made of silk gauze (summer use). The pattern used is an incredibly rare one called Gosōryū [five-clawed dragon]. There are different meanings depending on the number of claws a dragon has. Among the patterns containing dragons, the five-clawed dragon is said to be especially sacred. It is a pattern so exclusive that only the Emperor himself was permitted to adorn garments using it.
Thanks to a real gold thread being used, this piece will never lose its vibrancy and will remain as brilliant in a 100 year’s time as it does now. This piece is considered highly valuable and rare even among the already exclusive Kodai-gire.
There are other pieces from Teiko Hoshi’s collection that use Kanyaō for inspiration; it seems there was something about this character that interested Teiko in particular. Even with her retirement approaching, it is evident that Teiko Hoshi poured her heart and soul into the crafting of this product—beholders will be hard put to take their eyes of its magnificence.
Artist
Teiko Hoshi
Production year
2013
Era of Kodai-gire
Qing dynasty (Chinese)
Usage of Kodai-gire
kimono
Base
Japanese sumac lacquer coated, with mother-of-pearl inlay
Size (Doll)
d 18cm w 20cm h 55cm
Size (Base)
d 30cm w 30cm h 5cm
Size (Box)
d 33cm w 32.5cm h 63cm
