Musha-Ningyō: Avatars of the Samurai Spirit
(April 27-October 6, 2024) Member preview day April 26
The Morikami Museum celebrates the wisdom and strength of all children in an extraordinary display of traditional dolls (ningyō) depicting Japan’s rich samurai culture, inspired by Kodomo no Hi, or Children’s Day. This popular festival was originally known as, Tango no Sekku (First Day of the Horse), and held on the 5th day of the 5th month. Noted for the elaborate display of dolls depicting renowned warriors drawn from Japan’s martial past, in 1948 the Japanese government rededicated the May holiday to all children – boys and girls – as Kodomo no Hi.
Musha-ningyō, or warrior dolls, represent a range of legendary and historic figures. The ascendency of the samurai warrior class in the 11th century profoundly shaped the philosophical, political, and visual culture of Japan for the next seven centuries. Samurai-based values and attitudes emphasized martial prowess and strength. The development of the Boy’s Day Ceremony, with its dramatic display of exquisitely dressed ningyō, not only reflects the proud family lineages and exploits, but the ritual also imbued the figures with a special symbolism that enabled participants to renew their connection with the spirit of the samurai.
Meet the movers and shakers of Japanese lore and legend, including elegant Empress Jingū, shaman and interpreter of dreams; Toyotomi Hideyoshi, Japan’s Great Unifier; Kato Kiyomasa, “The Devil General;” archer Minamoto Yorimasu, the monster-slayer; and Kintarō and Momotarō, beloved boy heroes of superhuman strength. Set against a backdrop of boldly decorated Boy’s Day banners and crested battlefield curtains, you can explore the world of these diminutive icons of nobility and trace their influence on contemporary avatars of the samurai spirit.
The Morikami is thrilled to present this rare gathering – curated by Alan Pate – of more than 50 meticulously outfitted musha-ningyō created by leading doll artists of the 19th and 20th centuries on-loan from private collections.
Join us Friday, April 26 for a lecture with curator Alan Scott Pate, as he dives into the details of this exhibit. Learn More
