The Edo-Kimekomi Dolls Exhibition was inaugrated by H.E. Mr Akitaka Saiki, Ambassador of Japan to India on 23rd March 2012. The exhibition showcased over 500 handcrafted traditional Japanese Edo-Kimekomi Dolls created individually by the Sachei-Kai members. The dolls depict Japanese festivals, folklore and traditions, and which are handmade by members of Sachiei-Kai Party from Japan.

The collaboration between Embassy of Japan, New Delhi and Sachiei-Kai give the opportunity to introduce audiences Japanese traditional heritage and culture through skilfully handcrafted traditional dolls and doll making.

Background on Traditional Japanese Edo-Kimekomi Dolls

The technique of making these dolls goes back to the Edo period (1603-1867). ‘’Kimekomi’’ refers to the method of making the dolls. It is said that these dolls were invented by a high-ranking shrine priest named Tadashige Takahashi some 300 years ago in Kyoto (old capital city of Japan). The body of the dolls is made of wood. Fabric cloth or Kimono material is carefully tucked into the carved grooves of the wooden body. The doll is completed by adding a painted head with supporting neck that is made of a light wood (paulownia). This method of making dolls gradually spread fro old Kyoto City to Tokyo (formerly known as Edo). Each of the dolls requires an average of two years to complete.

The Edo-Kimekomi Dolls Sachiei-Kai is based in Tokyo, Japan. Headed by the founder, Ms.Sachei Ito, the Party has a large following of members and about 350 teachers and instructors of traditional Edo-Kimekomi doll making. Under the Chairladyship of Ms.Sachiei Ito, the Party aims to preserve this special Japanese method of making dolls by the Kimekomi-technique. With forty-five years of experience in Kimekomi doll making, Ms.Ito wishes to share the joy and promote the appreciation of the traditional dolls.