MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912)

Details

A GROUP OF TEN JAPANESE WOOD KOBE TOYS
MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912)
Each one modelled as various articulated figures, creatures and mythological beings in a range of poses including eating a watermelon, two figures in a cart with drumsticks, and a snake appearing out of a basket, several figures with inlaid and articulated eyes and tongues
The largest 6 in. (15 cm. high)

Special notice

Prospective purchasers are advised that several countries prohibit the importation of property containing materials from endangered species, including but not limited to coral, ivory and tortoiseshell. Accordingly, prospective purchasers should familiarize themselves with relevant customs regulations prior to bidding if they intend to import this lot into another country. VAT rate of 20% is payable on hammer price and buyer's premium

Lot Essay

These mechanical wooden toys are named after the harbour city of Kobe in Japan - the town in which they were produced. The fun and often obscure dolls were mostly collected by visitors and tourists to the region as souvenirs in the late 19th and early 20th century after the port was opened up to trading with the west.

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