Kusudama-mochi [Medicine ball holder]

A Gosho doll wearing an eboshi [crow hat] (black-lacquered headgear originally worn by court nobles) and waving around an ornamental ball-shaped scent bag.
Gosho dolls originated in Kyoto around the middle of the Edo period (1603-1868) and were typically dolls of young nude boys. This doll, however, is wearing a chanchanko which is a padded sleeveless kimono jacket, made using Kodai-gire.
These dolls got their name due to when the Gosho—another name for the Emperor—would give feudal lords similar dolls as a thank you gift. The doll’s head has been made to be large and rounded to characterize the boy’s adorableness, along with other rounded features.

This doll stands out due to it not using any wire; it has instead been carved from a single piece of wood. This was then polished with many coats of chalk. A piece of work that has taken a considerable amount of time and effort, and an amalgamation of Japanese craftwork and sophistication. The petals of the flowers protruding from the ornamental ball are actually carved from many layers of red pine. You can feel the affection that the artist has put into carving each tiny petal individually.
The material used for the short sleeve kimono is a piece of Kodai-gire that is particularly antique; there is now only a small amount remaining, making it considerably valuable. The eboshi (hat) is carved from wood and has been painted.

A doll created for celebratory occasions, with an air of sophistication that accompanies the radiant flowers. A doll made to wish for a child’s healthy growth, perfect for displaying in your home, or as a present for any occasion involving children.

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Artist
Sumiko Hoshi

Production year
1988

Era of Kodai-gire
Edo period

Usage of Kodai-gire
kimono

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

Size (Doll)
d 17cm w 20cm h 24cm

Size (Base)
d 30cm w 30cm h 1cm

Size (Box)
d 33.5cm w 33cm h 34cm