How to Collect Hakata Dolls

Hakata dolls are earthenware figurines that have their origin in Kyushu Island in southern Japan. In 1608 Lord Kuroda Nagamasa was having Fukuoka Castle built. One of the workmen making clay roof tiles also made dolls from the clay. Lord Nagamasa asked the artisan, Sochichi Masaki, to make more dolls, thus starting a tradition that continues today. Modern masters still create dolls from the clay found in the vicinity of the castle. The dolls are molded in a plaster cast, fired in a kiln with no glaze, then hand painted.

Instructions

1. Purchase a reference book such as "Japanese Dolls: The Fascinating World of Ningyo" by Alan Scott Pate. The book will define specific characteristics to look for when purchasing dolls for your collection. Important attributes will be expressive facial features and fine detail work in the surface painting. There are many types of figurines available such samurai, geisha and theater characters. Less formal dolls such as farmers, craftsmen and children are popular collectibles.

2. Bid at live auctions and online auction sites such as Ebay.com and Trocadero.com for antique and vintage dolls. A Hakata doll will be valued according to age and the reputation of the artisan who painted it. Stickers on the bottom of the figurines will provide this information. Sites such as Japonic.com have new figurines by current artisans for sale.

3. Obtain appraisals and insurance for your collection. This will substantiate and protect your investment. You can find a credentialed appraiser through the International Society of Appraisers.

4. Display your collection in a lighted trophy or curio cabinet with glass shelves and a mirrored back. This will protect the figurines from dust and allow optimal viewing from every angle.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't display your fragile Hakata dolls on tables or unprotected shelves.

References

• Japan Atlas: Hakata Dolls
• Things Asian: Priceless Dolls
• Dolls of Japan: History of Hakata Dolls
• Existenx: Hakata Doll
• The International Society of Appraisers: Find an Appraiser

Resources

• Imari and Hakata Dolls: Beauty of Japanese Art