Utagawa TOYOHIRO (1773-1829)

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A surimono showing a mechanical doll with movable eyes and mouth. It holds two puppets of Chinese boys, karako, playing cymbols. These automata, karakuri ningyo, were popular in Edo-period Japan and those made by Takeda Omi were the most famous. The doll stands on a small table with a flowering cherry tree. Issued c 1810s. Rare.

Fine impression and colour with extensive gold, silver and burnishing. Fine condition.

Status: Sold