Washi and Gourd Ningyo

I never thought I would take on the challenge of gourd dolls until I saw a display of beautiful, highly decorative washi ningyo. I must admit, they called to me.

Geisha in Purple

Oh My! A naked geisha.

Here you can see the gourd form and wire arms before she is dressed in several layers of washi paper. Even the hair is washi paper.

The Golden Geisha is a good example of the richness of washi paper. Often patterned after fine kimono, washi has the feel of fabric and can last just as long.

Traditional washi ningyo have blank faces leaving the expression up to your imagination.

Being a gourd artist, I would be remiss if I didn't give the girls a fully grown miniture hard shell gourd (with a double happiness symbol)

Traditional style obi as well as underskirts are done in a variety of patterns.

"Ningyo" is a Japanese word for "human form". My dolls are delicately crafted with fine washi paper on a gourd form.

I welcome your questions or comments. For prices or ordering information please contact me at: ezmaclee@comcast.net

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