KOBO Seattle | since 1995

Found Objects

Hariko Tiger 55 - Fukushima

Vintage hariko (paper-mâché) tiger.

Miharu Hariko is a representative folk toy from Fukushima Prefecture. Its origins date back to the Edo period when the lord of Miharu, Akita Takaaki, brought a doll maker from Edo during his return from a duty trip. He established a "decorative house" in the Takashiba village within his domain, allowing local farmers to learn the craft of doll-making. Many of the dolls are inspired by vibrant dances and Kabuki performances, making the elegant and refined Miharu Hariko one of Japan's most celebrated traditional toys, not only in the Tōhoku region but across the country.

2.25"x 4.5" x 4.25"L

Fukushima, Japan