Japanese Joruri Puppet Monkey Trainer Doll by Takeo Oe Prewar Awa Ningyo VG405

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Japanese Joruri Puppet Monkey Trainer Doll by Takeo Oe Prewar Awa Ningyo VG405

Takeo Oe (1907–1997) was a doll maker from Otsu Town, Naruto City, Tokushima Prefecture, and is known as the fourth-generation master Oe Ibosuke.
This is a traditional Joruri puppet doll created by Takeo Oe, a craftsman from Tokushima Prefecture, Japan, known for his work in the prewar period. The figure represents a monkey trainer (Sarumawashi), a popular character in Edo and Taisho-era folk performances. Made from fabric and wood with hand-painted facial features, it captures the expressive charm and humor of Japanese puppet theater (Awa Ningyo Joruri).
This doll was featured in a Japanese toy magazine, identified by researcher Masaaki Akaike, and is a fine example of early 20th-century Japanese folk artistry.

Features

• Origin: Tokushima Prefecture, Japan

• Artist: Takeo Oe (signed on the base)

• Material: Fabric, wood, and pigment

• Period: Prewar (early Showa era)

• Subject: Monkey trainer with a small puppet figure

• Handcrafted details with expressive painted faces and period attire

Uses
Perfect for collectors of Japanese folk art, Joruri puppets, or theater-related artifacts. It can also be displayed as an art piece that represents the craftsmanship and storytelling culture of traditional Japanese puppetry.

Size (approx.)
Height: 44cm / 17.3 inches
Width: 48cm / 18.9 inches
Weight: 320g

Condition
When you insert your hand into the lower back of the doll, you can find a rod that moves the head from side to side and a string connected to a small wooden piece that moves the head up and down.
By looking inside from beneath the clothing, it appears that there are some minor mechanical issues, so it may require repair.
The head can still be moved both vertically and horizontally.
Each hand is also equipped with a control rod for movement.
The legs originally do not have any rods attached.
The eyebrows and mouth (tongue and lips) can move, but there are no strings or mechanisms currently attached to operate them.
Used. There are stains, tears, and wear on the fabric due to age. The paint on the face shows light cracks and fading. Overall, it retains an authentic patina and presence suitable for display.

Please check the photos for details.

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----- Shipping -----
Your order will be shipped by FedEx or Japan Post, depending on the delivery area.

• FedEx: Estimated delivery in 3–6 days

• Japan Post: Estimated delivery in 4–12 days

----- Return Policy -----
If you are not satisfied with your purchase, returns are accepted within 30 days of receiving your item.

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• Shipping fees are non-refundable.

• If a package is returned due to refusal of delivery, the return postage will be deducted from your refund.

• Customs duties are non-refundable; please contact your local customs office for reimbursement.

----- About Used Artifacts and Antiques -----
We make every effort to provide accurate and honest descriptions.
Some items are over 100 years old.
Please review all photos and descriptions carefully.
Condition is noted in the listing, but feel free to contact us with any questions before purchasing.