Antique Akihide Noguchi Original Work: Jiyu Doll / Homare Doll Cute Dango-chan (Search: Ichimatsu Doll)

This is a very rare Jiyuu Doll by master craftsman Akihō Noguchi.
This is not a standard Jiyuu Doll, but a type where the joints are connected with metal fittings.
It seems that famous doll shops at the time, in order to differentiate themselves from others, further evolved the Jiyuu Doll and had skilled doll makers create these dolls with a wider range of motion, selling them under names like Homare Doll and Nakayoshi Doll.
Some doll shops even registered patents, as we would call them today.
Akihō Noguchi, along with Mizuki Kashimura, was active as a renowned doll maker of Jiyuu Dolls.
Dolls by this craftsman rarely appear on the market.
While Ichimatsu Dolls and creative dolls are also seen, it is said that during his training at Higashi-Gyō, he was the brother of the famous Kyōyō Hirata.
Ichimatsu Dolls are of the older sister type, and while beautiful young ladies are also made, the child-like types and creative dolls often feature faces with innocence and round eyes. Their small, understated eyes and nose are a particular charm, and they are my favorite type of doll.

Originally, the metal joints were likely covered with cotton and wrapped in cloth, but they are now exposed.
Regarding the condition, I have taken the time to address any initial defects or dirt as much as possible, but there are some unavoidable light stains and paint peeling on areas like the neck.
Nevertheless, the craftsmanship is excellent, clearly demonstrating the skill with which it was made as a high-quality doll of its time.
Although difficult to discern in the images, the eyebrows and eyelashes are hand-painted one by one with a fine brush, like threads.
The grumbler in the stomach does not work.
The hair is messy and thinning.
The kimono was custom-made by a craftsperson.
The dango-chan type appears to have held a Dengaku drum in one hand, but it is missing.
Instead, I will include a small accessory that can be held.
The height is approximately 33cm.
This is a very lovely and super rare little girl.
I would be happy if she finds a good home.

Please note that this item is not eligible for further price reduction.
Although not original, a small Dengaku drum has been found, and it will be included as well.

Antique Doll
Ichimatsu Doll
Homare Doll
Nakayoshi Doll
Japanese Doll
Antique