Saitama Inu Hariko: painted paper; H.3" x L.3.5"; contemporary; Saitama Prefecture. The dog in Japanese folk lore symbolizes many things. This one can be a talisman for easy child birth (as dogs experience) and as a protector of children. Dogs in general are symbols of protection and loyalty, and also have the ability to recognize demons (and other animals such as fox and tanuki) in human form...

Mashiko-ware yunomi (tea cup),new. This is a kata (mold) made yunomi, refered to in the local Mashiko dialect as a "mambo" yunomi. It has been a standard production item in Mashiko for many years. This cup features a black glaze over a resist pattern of sasa bamboo leaves and namijiro (white) glaze. Volume =8 oz/220ml. H.3.5"(9cm) X Dia.3"(7.75cm.) The town of Mashiko is located about 70 northwest of Tokyo, in Tochigi Prefecture...

Miharu Hariko papier-mache doll of "Hebi" (Snake) made in 1988 for the Asian Zodiac Year of the Snake in 1989. Miharu Village, Fukushima Prefecture. H.4.75"(11cm) x Dia.2.875"(7cm.) Moveable tail. Some minor toning to paper due to age. Snake years include: 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013. Miharu-machi (town) is located just NW of Koriyama City in central Fukushima Prefecture...