This is a pair Edo or Meiji Era (c. 1800) antique Japanese Samurai and Lady in imperial Heian court dress. These dolls are soft sculptures dressed in silk kimono over a firm base. They have a wooden head and gofun (crushed oyster shell) finished face along with carved wooden hands. Each doll is wearing the same silk pattern as their top kimono identifying the pair as occupying the same rank in the imperial house. These two are museum quality artifacts with a 200 year history. A rare and beautiful find.

Having been in storage for over 150 years, with the exception of minor signs of past use, they remain in  very good condition. In kneeling position they measure about 15" tall by 17" wide (38 x 43 cm).