Papier-mache Figurine - Panda

Creating figurines is an age-old craft in Japan. Small humanoid and animal figurines made of clay have been discovered which date as far back as the Jōmon period (approx. 14,000-400 BC). As one of the earliest forms of craftsmanship and creative expression, the creation of such figurines grew in popularity as people experimented with new techniques and materials such as wood, metal and paper. The Japanese technique of hariko is one such example. These hariko figurines have been created at the Good Job! Center Kashiba which strives to create jobs in various industries for people with disabilities. Instead of a carved wooden or bamboo mould that would normally be wrapped in washi (Japanese paper), they use 3D printed moulds and wrap them in either washi or newspaper which has been soaked in a specially prepared mix of glue and chalk to create the figurines. Without removing the mould within, the figurines are simply painted by hand using special white paint called gofun, and acrylic paint for the colours. Hariko has been used for centuries in Japan to create a wide variety of folk toys. These toys are often used as ornaments or as good luck charms carrying symbolic meanings. Pandas are a well-liked animal in Japan due to their somewhat clumsy but endearing nature.

As each piece is handmade, there might be individual differences.

Size: L10 cm x W4.3 cm x H4.5 cm

Kantō

The Kantō region is densely populated and home to a third of the country's population. It is centred around the nation's vibrant capital – Tokyo, formerly known as Edo, which has been the cultural, economic and political heart of Japan for centuries. Outside this megacity, there are mountains, onsen and ski resorts, magnificent temple complexes and excellent surfing opportunities within easy reach.