Shimoura Bentenkai - Clay doll, "Ebisu-sama"

In Japanese mythology and folktales, there are the Seven Gods of Fortune. The Ebisu-sama is revered as the god of fishermen and fortune. A symbol of protection and luck, it is popular to display Ebisu-sama at the port and the entrance of homes to invite prosperity and good fortune!

Each doll is hand painted and have unique characteristics.

• Sold separately
• Approximate measurements: 2 3/4"W x 2 3/8"H
• Material: clay, paper
• Care instruction: to clean, gently wipe the surface with a dry cloth.
• Do not hand wash or get wet.

Story:

Clay dolls from Amakusa city in Kumamoto prefecture.  Shimoura-benten-kai has started in 2013 as a group to support local businesses and traditional techniques to create the dolls.  This small town in Amakusa used to be a well known place for clay dolls and has more than 300 years of history. Unfortunately most craftsman have retired but recently a few number of women have volunteered to learn the techniques to create dolls and carry on the tradition.