Beginning in the Heian Period (794-1194), the custom of offering the Emperor flowering branches at the beginning of each season was introduced. This was called kenjo, and it originally refered to an offering to a god or the emperor. Today, kenjo is still used to refer to a spiritual offering; but now, both the Emperor and a soldier who sacrificed his life for his country may receive kenjo.
The doll is wearing clothing from the imperial Heian court. 30 cm. About 1 pound. |
