Vintage Japanese Mitsuningyo Futaoki... "Three Boy" lid rest. (Bronze)

This bronze futaoki (lid rest) is made in the mitsuningyō (三人形 - three dolls) style, one of the seven styles said to be preferred by Rikyu, though the design probably originated in China. The shōmen or front of the futaoki is marked by the one doll that is dressed differently from the others. A futaoki (蓋置 - lid rest) is a small stand used to hold the lid of the kama or for resting the hishaku on. They are typically made of bamboo, ceramic, or metal, and come in a vast array of shapes and styles. While metal and ceramic futaoki can be quite ornate and are considered more formal 4.9cm (1.9in) - width 4.7cm (1.9in) - height Excellent vintage condition