#TwoForTuesday:
Pair of Incense Boxes in the Shape of Dog Charms
Japan, Edo period, c.1840
Porcelain w/ overglaze enamels (Minpei kilns)
H 1 3/4 in (4.4 cm); L 2 1/2 in (6.4 cm)
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York 23.225.6a,b & 23.225.7a,b
https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/45358
https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/45359
“Pairs of dog-shaped papier-mâché figures (inuhariko) were produced from the Heian period on as protective amulets. By the beginning of the Edo period, they were part of the traditional wedding set, used to ensure safe childbirth and also to protect the child's health. Initially, inuhariko pairs—male and female—were presented at the engagement ceremony; later, they had an important role in the wedding process as well—they were carried in the wedding palanquin as good luck amulets. Inuhariko can also be found in the shape of cats.”
