Japanese Ceramic Figurine – Akabeko

Made by Kohchosai Kosuga, founded in Tokyo in 1898 and appointed the same year as a purveyor to the Imperial Household. Their bamboo work won prizes at the World's Fairs of St. Louis (1904), London (1910) and Dresden (1911).
An akabeko figurine: the red color of the beko (a traditional folk toy from Aizu, Fukushima) is said to ward off evil and disaster. A charming, compact ornament for any corner of the home -- entryway, living room, wherever you like. Small size and color variation are inherent to handcrafted natural materials.
- Material: Plaster clay
- Size: Approx. W4 x D8 x H5 cm
The house - Kohchosai Kosuga opened in Nihonbashi, Tokyo in 1898 and was appointed that year as a purveyor of bamboo craft to the Imperial Household and the princely families. Within thirteen years its work had taken prizes at three world exhibitions: St. Louis in 1904, London in 1910, Dresden in 1911. The house moved to Kyoto in 1947 and has worked there since.
The idea - "The classic is new: value that does not change across eras." They put it three ways: that tradition is a succession of innovations rather than a resting place; that quality comes from facing the material honestly; and that beauty is owed even to the plainest everyday object.
Still moving - in 2006 they made bamboo basket bags for an Issey Miyake Paris collection. Fifteen people work there today.
Shipped directly from Kyoto, Japan. Packed with care for international delivery.