Hina Ningyo

Dimensions: 43cm (length) x 45cm (height) x 41cm (width) (16.92 in x 17.71 in x 16.14 in)
Handmade in Japan

This magnificent set of traditional Japanese dolls is a faithful reproduction of the famous Hina Ningyō, displayed during Hinamatsuri, the Doll’s Festival, celebrated every March 3rd in Japan. This is a 7-tier Hina Kazari set, representing the imperial court of the Heian period (794–1185) in all its splendor and hierarchy.

At the top of the tiered display sit the Emperor and Empress, dressed in luxurious, brightly colored kimonos. They are surrounded by their court ladies, musicians, and guards, each carefully dressed and positioned according to tradition. Every doll has a specific role and features a delicately hand-painted face with a gentle and dignified expression.

The red cloth on which the dolls are arranged is called dankake, and each level of the display (hinadan) holds specific meaning. The attention to detail, the intricate patterns of the garments, the fine facial features, and the variety of ornaments make this set an exceptional piece, worthy of the finest collections.

In Japan, this display is traditionally set up by families to wish their daughters health, happiness, and prosperity. After March 3rd, it is customary to take down the display promptly, as tradition holds that leaving it up too long might delay the girl's future marriage.