Hundreds of rare Japanese ornaments have been found in a family’s attic.
The items are used for the religious festival of Hinamatsuri, which is also known as Doll’s Day or Girls’ Day.
The unique collection was found packed away in one of two old lacquer travelling trunks, which are traditionally used for storing kimonos.
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And the home’s current owners had no idea what they were.
This particular set of dolls and accessories, called Hinakazari, was thought to have been purchased in East Asia.
They are decorated in gold lacquer on a black roiro ground, painted with leafy scrolls and stylised flowers.
The set also includes various pieces of furniture such as chests, shelves and other cabinets.
There is a tiny collection of miniature books inscribed with calligraphy, a palanquin with bamboo blinds, paper lanterns, a toilet set, writing tables and many other items.
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And as they are believed to date back to the 19th century, they could be very valuable.
The family – who want to remain anonymous – live in Hampshire.
A Woolley and Wallis auctioneer spokesperson said: “The set has been given a conservative estimate of £1,000 to £2,000 but due to its rarity and quality it is expected to achieve much more.”
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Hinamatsuri is an annual festival in Japan that began in 1686 and is now celebrated on 3 March of each year.
Platforms covered with a red carpet–material are used to display a set of the ornamental dolls which represent the Emperor, Empress, attendants and musicians in traditional court dress of the Heian period.
More elaborate displays include a multi-tiered stand with up to fifteen dolls, as reported by What’s The Jam.
The displays symbolise the healthy growth and happiness of girls.
Alexandra Aguilar, of Woolley and Wallis, said: “The discovery of this rare set of Hinakazari pieces is very exciting.
“Especially as the current owners had no idea what they were, as the trunk had been sitting in the attic of the house for an unknown period of time.
“This set is particularly rare, due to its exceptional quality and also because it includes hundreds of miniature pieces, which is rarely seen in Western Europe.”
The set is being auctioned on 21 May.
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