NEWS

On February 2nd, within the framework of the events dedicated to the Year of Japan in Russia, the exhibition "The World of Japanese Kokeshi Dolls" from the collection of the Japan Foundation (Moscow) will take place in the Exhibition Hall of the Yelabuga State Preserve Museum.

Kokeshi is a traditional wooden doll covered with paintings. The art of creation of kokeshi dolls was developed in Japan since ancient times and flourished during the period from the 17th through the 19th centuries. Later, Japanese artisans created them for sale to the visitors of local hot springs. These toys are distinguished by their elegance, variety, and simplicity. Their paintings and forms show not only the individuality of the master who created them, but also the identity of the area where they were made. At the time being, these wooden pupae are one of the most recognizable national symbols of the Land of the Rising Sun.

The exhibition will feature 74 original toys of different types: Togatta Kokeshi with an elongated trunk, a Naruko Kokeshi, which produce a sound reminiscent of a child's crying when turning their head, a Yodzhiko Kokeshi, which, according to popular beliefs, brings many children and happiness to the family, colorful Yajiro Kokeshi, Daruma dolls – one of the most popular mascots bringing luck in modern Japan, and more.

The subject line will be supplemented by exhibits prepared by the Yelabuga State Preserve Museum: Traditional paper cranes, a souvenir doll in Japanese national clothes, images of traditional Japanese Kokeshi toys. In addition, the exhibition will also feature works based on Japanese motifs performed by students of the Yelabuga Children's Art School No. 1 n.a. I.I. Shishkin.