Poupées Manekineko / Zuiun Blanc

À propos des poupées Kimekomi et du Maneki Neko
Le Kimekomi est un artisanat traditionnel japonais remontant à la période d’Edo, au cours duquel du tissu est méticuleusement glissé dans des rainures sculptées à la main sur une base modelée afin de vêtir la figurine. En alliant ce travail manuel minutieux au Maneki Neko — le chat porte-bonheur japonais classique qui attire la chance et la prospérité dans les affaires —, nous avons créé une pièce à la fois charmante et raffinée.

Motif Zuiun (nuages de bon augure)
Sur un fond d’un blanc pur, ce motif divin met en scène le Zuiun (nuages de bon augure), symbole de présages favorables. Représentant la fortune croissante et la chance, ce motif porteur de sens constitue un geste d’encouragement discret mais puissant, ce qui en fait un cadeau idéal pour célébrer les nouveaux départs et les projets audacieux.

Largeur：7,5 cm
Profondeur：7,0 cm
Hauteur：14 cm
Poids：63 g

DOLL STUDIO ARAI

"Small, Yet Supreme."

This is the unwavering vow at the very core of our craftsmanship.

No matter how times change, Edo Kimekomi dolls—including Hina and Gogatsu dolls—are given life solely through the meticulous handiwork and earnest vision of the artisan. In every single moment spent tucking fabric with absolute precision into the hand-carved grooves lies a deep pride in traditional techniques passed down since the Edo period, together with a warm wish to gently enrich the daily lives of those who hold them.

Though crafted in a compact size that harmonizes seamlessly with modern living spaces and diverse international interiors, there is zero compromise when it comes to their elegant air and handcrafted warmth. Combining a resolute determination to preserve tradition with the flexibility to adapt to changing times, we carefully weave each piece today—a "small, yet supreme masterpiece" that will forever light up the heart of its owner.

ARTISAN STORY

DOLL STUDIO ARAI / Hisao Arai

Born in Iwatsuki, Saitama City—a historic "Town of Dolls"—Hisao Arai grew up immersed in artisan craftsmanship as the second-generation head of the prestigious Arai Doll Shop.

Having mastered the technique of Kimekomi handed down since the Edo period, his creations—born from a honed aesthetic sensibility and exquisite handiwork—exude a graceful presence and authentic elegance, continuing to captivate many admirers. While steadfastly preserving tradition, he spares no effort in bringing its charm to future generations and the global stage. Beyond promotional activities such as media appearances and lectures at local elementary schools, he courageously takes on the challenge of developing new styles and products that harmonize with overseas lifestyles—a master artisan paving new possibilities for traditional Japanese crafts.

EDO KIMEKOMI NINGYO / EDO KIMEKOMI DOLLS

About 300 years ago / 1700s / Edo Period (1603–1868)

The roots of Edo Kimekomi dolls trace back approximately 300 years to Kyoto during the mid-Edo period.

The craft is said to have originated during the Genbun era (1736–1741), under the rule of the eighth shogun, Tokugawa Yoshimune. Tadashige Takahashi, who served at Kamigamo Shrine in Kyoto, carved a doll from scrap willow wood left over from making a ritual offering box. He then carved narrow grooves into the wood and tucked (kimekomu) scraps of a Shinto priest's garments into them. This simple and charming figure was called the "Kamo Doll," which became the foundation of modern Kimekomi dolls.

Subsequently, Kamo dolls were popularized by doll makers in Kyoto. Eventually, many artisans relocated to Edo (present-day Tokyo), which was flourishing as the cultural center of the time. As the craft evolved uniquely in the city of Edo, the Kimekomi doll also transformed into a refined and chic "Edo style," which has been passed down to the present day as the beautiful and elegant "Edo Kimekomi Doll."

Différences individuelles

Chaque pièce étant fabriquée à la main individuellement, de légères variations de couleur, de motif, de forme et de texture peuvent survenir. Ces subtiles différences sont une caractéristique naturelle des créations artisanales, rendant chaque pièce véritablement unique. Nous espérons que vous apprécierez ces variations individuelles comme faisant partie de la beauté et du caractère de l'artisanat japonais.

Délai de production

Si un article n'est pas actuellement en stock, il peut être fabriqué sur commande par l'artisan. Comme chaque pièce est soigneusement fabriquée à la main, la production peut prendre plusieurs mois selon l'article et le planning de l'artisan. Nous vous remercions de votre patience et de votre compréhension.