Place of origin: Sakata City, Yamagata Prefecture
Donated by Shikano Ichio
This clay doll was most likely made during the late Edo period (1603–1868) by Ōishi Sukeemon, who operated a foundry in what is now Kamegasaki in Sakata City. Udogawara dolls are said to have been influenced by Fushimi dolls, which were first brought to this area from Kyoto via the Kitamaebune (lit. northern-bound ships) shipping route that ran northwards from Osaka to Hokkaido.
Characterized by bright colours and their charmingly naïve design, they were typically made to celebrate the birth of a child, and express hopes for a healthy life.