85.05 EUR
[Akabeko, a local toy from the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture] Akabeko is a folk craft representing Fukushima Prefecture. This is a papier-mâché doll made of a cow mold primed red with black spots and white borders. In addition, Akabeko is designed to have a movable neck, making it an adorable piece of folk art that will sway when you touch it. [Lucky charm to ward off evil spirits and diseases] In the dialect of the Tohoku region, especially the Aizu region, cow is called beko . In ancient times, it was called the ``amulet cow'' or ``lucky cow,'' and was loved by people as a lucky charm to ward off evil spirits and evil diseases. [Rare production from Fukushima Prefecture] There were once dozens of manufacturing factories, but now there are only a few left, and each piece is made by craftsmen with all their heart. Almost all painting work is done by hand. Only a limited number of these toys can be made in a day, making them rare, handmade local toys. [History of Akabeko] There are various theories about the origin of Akabeko, but it was about 400 years ago. At the time, Ujisato Gamo, the castle lord who ruled Aizu, promoted a plan to encourage side jobs to protect the samurai who were struggling to make ends meet due to lack of work. As part of this effort, craftsmen were invited from Kyoto to learn how to make papier-mâché for feudal retainers and make papier-mâché Beko dolls. This is said to be the prototype of the local toy Akabeko . [Details] Made in Japan Size: Approx. W140mm x D61mm x H80mm Weight approx. 57g
