Indeed, Japanese dolls, called “ningyo”, have played a significant cultural role from as far back as the seventh century.

As it happens, Muzium Negara is hosting an exhibition that hopes to educate Malaysians on the intricacies of Japanese dollmaking, offering valuable insight into the modern and historical life of that society.

Held in the museum’s central hall, “Ningyo: Art and Beauty of Japanese Dolls” is organised by the Japan Foundation, in collaboration with the Malaysian museums department, national unity ministry, and Japanese embassy.

There are 67 dolls on display throughout the exhibition, which is divided into four sections: “Ningyo to pray for children’s growth”; “Ningyo as fine art”; “Ningyo as folk art”; and “Spread of Ningyo culture”.

In the “children’s growth” section, visitors are taught how dolls were used in rituals to ensure a baby’s good health and provide them with protection.

Some of these can be very simplistic: the Amagatsu doll, used for over 1,000 years now, is basically made from paper rolls with a drawn-on face.

Others are more complex, with the centrepiece of the exhibition being one such example. Placed within a display case, the “Dairi-Bina”, or “Imperial Couple”, represent the Japanese emperor and empress.

Used in the annual Hina Matsuri festival, these dolls are dressed in clothing resembling the robes worn by reigning emperor Naruhito at his 2019 coronation.

Local Taoists may also be surprised to see a figurine of the deity Zhong Kui, known as “Shoki” to the Japanese. There, he is worshipped as a guardian protector of the family.

The “fine art” section highlights the intricate handiwork that goes into the making of each doll. It involves complicated sculpting, beautiful colours and immaculate clothing – in short, each an artwork in and of itself.

Visitors can marvel at the fine detail that goes into these figurines and their garb, as well as take in their meaning. One good example is the “Fuji Musume” (“Wisteria Maiden”), whose costume is an accurate, albeit miniaturised, version of actual dancing clothes!

In the “folk arts” section, dolls from the various regions and prefectures of Japan are on display, each with its own unique characteristics and personality.

Some are uncannily lifelike, like the “Hakata Ningyo” from Fukuoka, while others are somewhat abstract, like the egg-shaped “Takasaki Daruma” from Gunma.

Finally, the “spread” section informs visitors on how Japanese dolls have adapted to modern times and society. One may not see it as such, but the exhibition suggests that the culture of Japanese dolls actually lives on in the form of anime figurines that decorate many a teenager’s bedroom!

Speaking with FMT Lifestyle, Japan Foundation director Tsukamoto Norihisa said they are expecting up to 35,000 visitors, and that the foundation hopes this will be one of many collaborations with Muzium Negara.

Additionally, on June 1, a Japanese Cultural Day will be held in the museum grounds, with many exciting activities such as sushi workshops and kendo demonstrations for visitors to enjoy.

‘Ningyo: Art and Beauty of Japanese Dolls’

Where:
Muzium Negara,
Jalan Damansara,
Perdana Botanical Gardens,
Kuala Lumpur

When:
9am-5pm daily until July 8

Admission for Malaysian adults costs RM2, and RM1 for senior citizens and the disabled. Admission is free for children and students.

For further information, check out Japan Foundation’s website.