Antique Japanese Actor Takeda Ningyo

Description

Antique Japanese
Takeda Ningyo
, depicting an older actor on the stage in the role of
Sojobo
, the leader of the
tengu
on Mt. Kurama who taught Yoshitsune martial skills dramatized in the “
Heiji Monogatari”
, standing here with the left leg outstretched costumed in layered kimono of
kinran
paper cloth brocades with sleeves tossed back on two layers, revealing the couched and satin stitch embroidered
chirimen
sleeves in a repeat pattern. The left hand holds the distinctive
yuzuriha
fan and in the right hand a smokers set composed of wooden basket, fire pot and pipe cylinder. The head is carved of wood grooved to depict age lines, covered in layers of burnished
gofun
with painted features and inset white hair and brows. The figures holds this dynamic pose on a traditional black lacquered stage base with characteristic inset embroidered panel.
Minor signs of age, wear, losses and restorations, otherwise fine condition.
Measuring: 13-3/8 in. high overall x 9-1/2 in. wide x 6-3/4 in deep.
1 lb. 3 oz. (530g.)
Edo period, circa 1840.