Haniwa of a Female Shrine Attendant, 6th century
Unknown Japaneseexpand_more
Earthenwareexpand_more
The Christina N. and Swan J. Turnblad Memorial Fundexpand_more 97.38
On View in Gallery 205expand_more
This haniwa, or clay funerary figurine, represents a female figure. Her necklace of magatama (claw- or fang-shaped jewels of special protective power) tells us that she is a miko, or shrine attendant, a respected position in early Japanese society. Traces of red pigment on her cheeks indicate tattoos or ceremonial face paint. In her original state she most likely wore a wide, flat hairdo that extended over her forehead. Her right arm, although now broken, once held a cup, an indication that she was responsible for preparing medicinal or magical potions.
Details
- Title
- Haniwa of a Female Shrine Attendant
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 97.38
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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