This is a cow and horse decoration finished with woodgrain in the familiar kimekomi craft style used for seasonal decorations such as hina dolls and May dolls.
It is a fine piece finished by the traditional craftsman "Junpei Ishikawa" in Iwatsuki (Saitama Prefecture), which produces the most Japanese dolls in Japan.
Its rounded form makes it an adorable doll, so we highly recommend you to hold it in your hands.

The size is slightly larger, inspired by real eggplant and cucumber cow and horse decorations.
Stage-equipped chirimen cow and horse decorationCompared to the stage type, the woodgrain kimekomi cow and horse decoration has a more substantial presence.

【"Kimekomi" means】
A technique where grooves are carved into the doll's body, and fabric such as kinran or yuzen is pressed into the grooves with a spatula (kimekomi) to dress the doll.
There is no worry about fabric distortion, and it remains beautiful even when displayed, making it popular as interior decor.
Also, because it is handmade, each piece has a different expression and texture.

This time, the cow and horse bodies are finished with chirimen fabric pressed into the woodgrain kimekomi style.
*Please note that traditional craft "Edo Kimekomi Dolls" are made from different materials.

【Size】
Cow: width 9.5× depth 16× height 10.5 (cm)
Horse: width 9× depth 18.5× height 10 (cm)
【Material】clay, chirimen
【Handling precautions, care methods, etc.】
- Please be careful not to get wet, as it may cause shrinkage or tearing.
- Dimensions and color shades may vary slightly.

【Indispensable cow and horse decorations for the Obon festival】
The "cow and horse" displayed during Obon are believed to be vehicles used by ancestors to travel between this world and the afterlife, with the meaning that they will quickly return riding the horse and return leisurely riding the cow.
Traditionally, cucumbers were made into horses and eggplants into cows, with legs made from chopsticks or similar, but due to the spoilage of vegetables in summer heat and the desire for items that can be used every year instead of disposable fresh produce, we have prepared a product that meets these needs.

【About Obon】
Obon is a festival to welcome the spirits of ancestors and deceased family members into this world. It begins with " mukaebi" (welcoming fire) and ends with "okuribi" (sending fire).
In households, the Bon lantern is arranged as the mukaebi and okuribi to honor the spirits of ancestors and deceased family members. Since it is the time once a year when ancestors return, it is best to do your utmost to welcome them within your means.

Traditionally,White lanterns for the new Obonwere prepared by the family of the deceased, and otherBon lanterns with designs (used annually)were generally prepared by relatives and acquaintances, but due to recent changes in living environments, the way of decorating has shifted from Buddhist altar rooms to living rooms and other home spaces, leading the family of the deceased toprepare all lanterns and Bon supplies, while relatives and acquaintances tend to prepare offerings (cash, incense, etc.).Furthermore, the timing for starting to decorate varies by household. Although the decorations are usually put up during the four days from the 13th (the first day of Obon) to the 16th (the last day), many start decorating gradually during the Obon month (July or August) to avoid rushing on the day itself.

Hasegawa responds to various requests regarding Obon offerings and memorial services.

▼ For customers wishing to include a noshi (ceremonial wrapping), please see here.

Popular Obon decoration categories include:

Traditional lanterns
	New-style mini lanterns		White plum blossom lanterns		(White lantern for the first Obon) Hanging lanterns
	Family crest lanterns		Obon supplies		Similar products here