Mubyō [Six Gourds]

As the name implies, this is a doll holding six gourds.
These figure-of-eight shaped gourds have been considered objects of good fortune since ancient times. Collecting six of them was said to protect the owner from sickness and promote good health. This belief stems from wordplay with another Japanese character compound also pronounced mubyō which literally means ‘no sickness’; hence six gourds (mubyō) became thought of as a sign of good omen.
Seeing as this play on words is only possible in the Japanese language, it is rare to find this custom outside of Japan. This doll embodies the Japanese ideals of good omens and brings them to life.

The doll’s garments were thought to have derived from a kosode [short sleeved kimono] from the Edo period (1603-1868). Kosode were only ever worn by high-society women and featured delicate embroidery. Due to the very detailed embroidery, it is likely that this piece of Kodai-gire was from a particularly early part of the Edo period.

The Kodai-gire used for the obi [kimono sash] is made from a Noh [traditional Japanese play] costume and compliments the doll with a womanly elegance and vibrant colors.
The gourds dangling sweetly from the doll’s hand are made from coral and were specially made just for this piece. Truly a doll that was created with no attention to detail spared.

This doll would find herself at home in any environment, allowing her to be kept on display all year round watching over everyone in the house and ensuring their good health.

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Artist
Teiko Hoshi

Production year
2000's

Era of Kodai-gire
Edo period

Usage of Kodai-gire
kimono, waist band

Base
Japanese sumac lacquer coated, with mother-of-pearl inlay

Size (Doll)
d 16cm w 17cm h 35cm

Size (Base)
d 27cm w 36.5cm h 2cm

Size (Box)
d 31.5cm w 40cm h 44cm