Cultural Heritage: Jirozaemon-hina
"Jirozaemon-hina" was established in Kyoto during the Edo period by the dollmaker Hina-ya Jirozaemon.
Characterized by black hair, a round face, and the "hikime kagibana" (slit-eyes and hooked-nose) style—reminiscent of the figures in the Tale of Genji scroll—this style captivated Edo for approximately thirty years, from the Horyaku to the Kansei eras. For court nobles and various daimyo, the "Jirozaemon-hina" was held in high regard as the gold standard of Hina dolls, regardless of passing trends.
This piece is presented by female artist Kyuyu Shimizu.
Infused with the unique sensibility of Kyuyu Shimizu, these dolls express the elegance and beauty of the Heian dynasty like no other, becoming more profound and tasteful the more you gaze at them. They are sure to be a Hina display that resonates in the hearts of those who hold them.
A graceful and exquisite form
that creates a space
The beautiful, heavy pure silk costumes, while classical, possess a modern sensibility that is uniquely Kyuyu’s. They radiate a beauty revived for the modern age.
The voluminous kimono is authentically tailored. The volume of the hem is achieved through traditional, time-consuming dressing techniques.
Beautiful silhouette
Rich with taste from every 360-degree angle
Kyuyu's characteristically modern color sense brings out an elegant and refined Heian beauty, with exquisite, premium obi fabrics shining beautifully against the supple form. The abundance of high-quality fabrics and obi patterns is exclusive to <Kobo Hiina>.
The noble, graceful color gradations and dressing techniques. The harmony of sensibility and materials. It is a masterpiece that resonates in the heart, born from Kyuyu's unique sensibility, going beyond just the pursuit of perfection.
Attention is paid even to the finest details, such as the construction of the Gyotai (fish-shaped pouch) and Sekitai (ornamental belt).
The storied expression of Jirozaemon-hina
A somewhat adorable, large Hina doll with the unique expression of a round face and slender eyes.
Accessories are essential to make the dolls shine even more beautifully. Among them, the folding screen plays a role so important that it influences the overall image.
Our curated washi paper screens and display stands are designed with simple tatami bases to emphasize the dolls. Please enjoy the high quality and refined artistry of these pieces.
■ Folding Screen ■
Quality and presence that stand out precisely because of its simplicity
The folding screen that wraps the scene in elegance retains the natural texture of washi paper.
Its sophisticated tones make the dolls shine even more beautifully.
■ Kuyu Original Wooden Nameplate
[ Kuyu Shimizu Profile ]
Kuyu Shimizu
1938: Born in Gamagori, Aichi Prefecture
Age 18: Began pursuing the path of a doll maker after marrying into a family of artisans
1965: Certified as a Hina doll craftsperson
1986: Established the traditional workshop "Hiina"
1993: Began live Hina doll production demonstrations at Takashimaya Tokyo
2008: Featured in NHK Nagoya "Hot Evening" program segment "Tokai Takumi"
2010: Exhibited at the Asahi Shimbun-sponsored "Japanese Colors and Layered Colors" exhibition in Himeji
2011: Exhibited at "JAPAN EXPO: Japan Culture Festival in Paris"
2012: Exhibited at "TBS Doll Show 2nd"
Kuyu Shimizu's Hina dolls possess the charm of fine art, setting them apart from mass-produced items.
These high-quality pieces, chosen with a mature perspective, are timeless treasures that you will want to continue displaying even as your child grows into adulthood.
We hope you enjoy a wonderful Hina Matsuri (Doll Festival) that brings smiles to the whole family for years to come.
