Antique Kobe Toys Mechanical Shaman Toy Articulated Doll Figure “Meiji Period” (1868-1912) Japanese *SOLD*

Antique Kobe Toys Mechanical Shaman Toy Articulated Doll Figure “Meiji Period” (1868-1912) Japanese

Not much is known about Kobe Toys. These toys were created and hand made from ebony during the Meiji period in Japan, which covered the years 1868 until 1912. There is evidence that Kobe toys were made a few years earlier and were made through the 1920’s as well. As Japan became less secluded in the late 1800’s, sailors from overseas visited the ports (in this case Kobe) and their influence is depicted in the Kobe rendition of an African American based on these interactions, conversations, and sketches. These toys are quite rare since they were never produced for commercial gain or export, but rather sold as mementos at the docks where the foreign ships were in port.

This particular Kobe piece depicts a Shaman on the front, when you turn the knob on the side away from you the Shaman’s legs, arms and tongue come out farther. As you continue to turn it a black man with a hat on pops out of the top and leans back, as you continue to turn it he leans forward and goes back down in to the box. At the same time the Shaman’s legs, arms, and tongue pull back in before it goes back to its resting position. The knob can be turned both ways. This toy works smoothly. There appear to be no fixes or restorations, and it appears to be in its original condition. It is approximately 2 1/4 x 2 1/4 x 3 3/4. This is a very rare and interesting toy to have.