Yamabushi Samurai Warrior Benkei Meiji Toso Gosho Ningyo Paper Mache Doll 11"H 武蔵坊弁慶

Antique Japanese Paper Mache Toso Ningyo Warrior Benkei 西塔武蔵坊弁慶Subduing Two Samurai Guards Sig. Unsigned. Circa: Meiji, 1867-1912 H 11 in. (28cm), W 9 in. (23cm), D 7 in. (18cm)  Condition: minor imperfections, overall very good. Burlwood Pedestal Included A superb antique Japanese Toso Ningyo of Saito Musashibō Benkei (1155–1189), the mighty Yamabushi samurai who lived in the latter years of the Heian Period (794–1185). He is commonly depicted as a man of great strength and loyalty, and a popular subject of Japanese folklore showcased in many ancient and modern literature and arts. Formed with Toso, a clay-like substance made of paulownia sawdust and paste; over a wooden or paper mache core and covered with layers of Gofun (Oyster Shell Lacquer). Here in this peerless Benkei wrestling with two samurai, in a sculptural composition that shows the warrior monk is forging ahead, at the splitting moment as his right foot is trampling on the back of a samurai who has fallen to the ground wh