A LARGE JAPANESE TAKEDA NINGYÔ DOLL, 19TH CENTURY Large antique Takeda doll 竹田人形 (Takeda ningyô), standing in a dynamic pose and with a strong facial expression. He is resting his right foot on a tree stump while stretching out the other foot. Standing in a really intimidating hero pose, hands held up high. Wearing a lavish brocade silk kimono. He is placed on a black wooden base with golden maki-e (lacquer design) of a wheeping willow in front. On the base also a separate ornamental piece shaped like some rocks, to function as a background. The doll is well made by hand. The head is made of shell paste 胡粉 (gofun), and the eyes are inlaid with glass. The doll and the costume are in a fair original condition with traces of aging. Pin of left leg loose, not standing stable. Dimensions: Height 42 cm, Width 34 cm, Depth 23 cm. Period: Japan - 19th century (Late Edo period/Early Meiji period). Takeda dolls are the dolls mimicking the poses and expressions of the popular Kabuki actors, at the time, playing the most famous scenes. The origin of its name is said to be coming from "Takeda-za," Osaka's biggest Kabuki theater in Edo period.