This piece measures 4.5" tall to 3.75" tall and 3.5" wide. The piece is comprised of three distinguished Japanese legendary as well as mythological characters who represent three sets of philosophical values of life: chivalrous spirit (Ninkyo), perseverance (Shinbo) and affection (Aijyo) and they are all Nodder Kokeshi dolls.
The long nose character on the left is known as Tengu. Tengu mythology was probably introduced to Japan in the 6th or 7th century AD in conjunction with the arrival of Buddhism from China. They are believed to have an ability to harness the supernatural power of nature. They are also very skilled at swordsmanship and weapon-smithing. Occasionally they are known to act as mentors to those who win their favor through respect. Many legendary martial artists and war heroes were said to have received Tengu's divine instruction in the art of fencing and martial arts. The Tengu's chivalrous "Ninkyo" spirit had helped to create many legends of their own.
The elegant figure in the center is Okame also known as Ame-no-Uzume, a Shinto goddess of mirth with the spirit of joy and affection (Aijyo). In the Japanese mythology, when the Sun Goddess Amaterasu shut herself inside the cave, the world plunged into a total darkness. It was as a result of Uzume's singing and dancing that Amaterasu emerged from the cave again and the world was restored. She performed a Kagura court dance for the Shinto Gods, the Uzume's dance is considered the prototype of shamanic performance and her myth helps to appreciate the ancient Japanese people's respect for the mysterious power of the female.
The figure in the right is a well-known legendary Buddhist monk known as Daruma in Japanese. A sixth-century Indian Buddhist monk named Bodhidharma, the founder and first patriarch of Zen Buddhism, has been celebrated for centuries throughout Asia. His legend says that sitting so long for meditation resulted in the loss of the use of his limbs. In Japan he symbolizes perseverance (Shinbo), tenacity and ability to overcome life's hardships and he has achieved a profound place in religion, art and folk culture.
There is a slight bit of ink run in two of the Japanese characters, though they are still easily legible. Except for what was mentioned, the condition of this piece is still very good. The writing at the base of the piece reads Shiraito no Taki in Nagano Prefecture of Japan where this piece originated. The characters depict calligraphy brushes and presumably this area is famous for its production. The age of this piece is from the 1960's.