Shell Toys and Dolls

Vintage miniature pin fire cap gun pair with mother of pearl on the handles, made in Japan with small ring on top of the barrel for use as a key chain or watc...

From our recent Japanese Acquisitions A rare couple- a princess and prince from ancient times, signed and 18 inches high, in fine condition We were lucky to meet a wonderful elderly lady who had been collecting Japanese dolls for several decades. This pair of dolls were the pride and joy of her collection. She was compassionate about her dolls but sadly had to sell them as she down sized her life style. Please enjoy these photos. These Japanese Imperial dolls dating to the Edo period, circa 1840 are fine quality examples that would be hard to surpass in size and quality. They symbolize ancient Heian period ideals from the 8th-11th centuries of rich decor, fabrics, and facial features. Their beautiful faces were crafted from crushed shell called gofun and coated over carved wood and their dress feature authentic period Edo 1840 textile kimono dress fabric. The Princess figure is replete with finely worked metal headdress- a feature you rarely find today since this accoutrements was often lost to the ages. Dimensions: tallest princess is 18 inches tall and 14 inches wide Age: Edo Period, circa 1840. Quality: fine condition with mild use appropriate to their good age. Provenance: these come from a Kyoto private doll collection About beauty and fashion during the Heian period: Beauty and fashion during the Heian Period was extremely important. The Japanese people treasured elegance and manners, and looking good was essential to their life. Japanese who came from important families had to look the part since beauty was valued over more important traits like honesty and even generosity. Heian woman’s clothing...

An amusing coconut shell piggy bank with brass feet and mini padlock. A finely-crafted and unique conversation piece. Original keys included. Lovely, warm patina. In the spirit of Ca...

These are very delightful and very collectible. The round-handled piece with the soldier measures 2.5" in diameter. Great detail-one can make out hair, folds of clothing, even the fu...