Ichimatsu dolls became known in the west in 1927 when 58 dolls were send from Japan to the US as Ambassadors of Friendship. These envoy dolls were 32″ tall and represented the craft of many doll making artists and manufacturers. Many dolls are in museums today but 15 dolls are unaccounted for. Ichimatsu dolls became very popular as presents to foreigners and in the 1930s many were send to famous people. Due to this habit of offering dolls to foreigners, Ichimatsu dolls also become known as “friendship dolls” in the West. This beautiful 17” Ichimatsu Doll comes with its original lacquered glass case, which has some minor losses. This doll is all original, in excellent condition with only minor damage to several fingers, and her costume, also in excellent condition, is made from antique pieces of kimonos. Mid 20th century."