Every year, Japan celebrates Hinamatsuri, or Doll’s Festival, on March 3rd with an assortment of gorgeous dolls. The dolls, which depict individuals from the Heian era court (such as the emperor, empress, attendants, and musicians), are meticulously arranged on a five or seven-tiered platform and are usually accompanied by extra decorations like peach blossoms and sake barrels. These dolls, known as hina ningyo, represent the Emperor, Empress, and their court attendants and are vividly coloured, ranging in size from small and basic to enormous and intricate.
A detailed look of the accessories worn by the Empress – Photo credit: Lauren Shannon
The origin of Hinamatsuri dolls is uncertain, but the custom most likely dates back to some time in the Heian era (794-1185). During this time the dolls were used in ceremonies to bring good luck and fend off evil spirits. During the Edo era, the tradition of presenting Hinamatsuri dolls on March 3rd became widespread (1603-1868), and people started to give the dolls as gifts to young girls. The number of tiers on the platform was also raised from five to seven around this time to reflect the Imperial family’s seven generations.
Hinamatsuri is a big deal for households with young girls. During the event, families will place their hina ningyo on a crimson carpet and serve food, sake, and other delicacies to the dolls. It is believed that they would bring luck and protection to the family’s daughter, so they are also used to pray for her health and happiness.
Young girls dressed up for the Doll’s Festival – Photo credit: Midory Niwa
The process of making a Hina Matsuri doll
The Emperor and Empress dolls are carved from Japanese cypress and are generally made of wood. The attendants and musicians are often fashioned from paper, cloth, and clay. After selecting the foundational materials, the artisan begins hand-sculpting and painting the dolls to give them their unique traits. The Emperor and Empress dolls, for example, have precise facial features, lavish clothing, and jewels. Once the dolls have been sculpted, they are normally protected from moisture and dust with a lacquer coating and then embellished with a range of textiles, such as silk and brocade, as well as adornments like jewelry and headdresses. Finally, the dolls are placed onto the tiers of the hina matsuri stand and arranged in the traditional order.
Hina Matsuri, The Emperor and Empress – Photo credit: Lauren Shannon
The Emperor and Empress
The Emperor and Empress dolls are often the most extravagant. They are usually clothed in the most lavish costumes with the most complex embellishments. The pair are the biggest and are always placed on the top shelf. Court attendants are often smaller and less elaborate, and are located on the middle and lower stages.
The arrangement of the dolls is highly crucial and meaningful. The Emperor and Empress are positioned in the middle, surrounded by court attendants. Their position shows that they are in the heart of the court and serves as a reminder of the significance of deferring to authority.
A closer look to the Emperor and Empress, showing the ornaments – Photo credit: Lauren Shannon
Hina Matsuri dolls are a traditional aspect of Japanese culture that represents prosperity, good fortune, and health for young girls. They are presented as a gift to commemorate this day that is so special to girls all over the country, and their popularity has lasted for ages. The vibrant patterns and superb craftsmanship of the dolls are a delight to see and are prominently exhibited in the house. They’re also a great conversation starter since many people are inquisitive about the history and importance of these unique dolls. By displaying them in your house, you will be reminded of the beauty of Japanese culture as well as the blessings of good health and prosperity that they provide.
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