Untitled

Unknown

ca. 1840 · Porcelain with overglaze enamels (Minpei kilns) · Asian Art

Pairs of dog-shaped papier-mâché figures (inuhariko) were produced from the Heian period on as protective amulets. By the beginning of the Edo period, they were part of the traditional wedding set, used to ensure safe childbirth and also to protect the child's health. Initially, inuhariko pairs—male and female—were presented at the engagement ceremony; later, they had an important role in the wedding process as well—they were carried in the wedding palanquin as good luck amulets. Inuhariko can also be found in the shape of cats.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1840

Medium

Porcelain with overglaze enamels (Minpei kilns)

Culture

Japan

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Gift of Mrs. V. Everit Macy, 1923