FREEing's incredibly popular figma "Table Museum" articulated figure series is expanding with a new sub-line, "Table Museum -Branch-." Following the first three releases – the Moai Statue, Terracotta Army Warrior, and Tutankhamun – the fourth entry brings us the iconic Jomon period idol, the "figma Shakoki Dogu." Priced at 11,000 JPY (tax included), it's slated for a March 2023 release.
"Dogu" are iconic artifacts from Japan's Jomon period. Current research suggests these clay figures were crafted by Jomon people to pray for safe childbirth and abundant harvests. Their rounded forms, prominent breasts, and wide hips are often interpreted as female characteristics, possibly symbolizing reverence for a Mother Earth deity. However, some scholars propose an alternative hypothesis, suggesting they might represent ancient plant spirits rather than human figures. Among these, the famous Shakoki Dogu, unearthed in Aomori Prefecture, earned its name from its distinctive eye design, which resembles the snow goggles worn by Inuit people to protect their eyes. Its unique shape and intricate surface patterns have led many to consider it an OOPArt (Out-of-Place Artifact), with rumors even linking it to extraterrestrial origins.
▼The most famous Shakoki Dogu (dogū) features intentionally damaged feet, believed to have served as a proxy for warding off evil and misfortune. (Image courtesy of Kyoto National Museum)
The "Table Museum -Branch-" series, which transforms global art pieces into playable figures, introduces its fourth entry: the "figma Shakoki Dogu." Standing approximately 11 cm tall, this figma meticulously recreates the Shakoki Dogu's characteristic stubby limbs, the intricate crown-like ornamentation on its head, its prominent nipples, and the distinctive holes and swirling patterns covering its entire body. Beyond its original, iconic wide eyes, the figure also includes unique interchangeable eye parts depicting a squinting smile, an angry expression, and a dejected look. Coupled with figma's signature smooth yet poseable joints, collectors can dynamically display the Shakoki Dogu in a variety of expressive poses!
figma Shakoki Dogu
Size: Approximately 110mm (overall length)
Product Type: Pre-painted articulated figure, non-scale, includes dedicated stand
Sculptor: Tatsuya Ishibashi (MIC)
Price: 11,000 JPY (tax included)
Release Date: March 2023
via： goodsmileshop