Ōhama Clay Dolls

Place of origin: Hekinan City, Aichi Prefecture

Donated by Shikano Ichio

While the former province of Mikawa in Aichi prefecture is known for its earthen tiles thanks to an abundance of high-quality pottery clay, it is also famous nationwide for its clay dolls. Ōhama clay dolls are some of the most highly regarded among these. First made circa 1892–93 in Hekinan City, they are often made in pairs, many of them based on kabuki plays.