A handcrafted omiyage doll from Nasu, a region in Japan known for its artisanal woodcraft and hot springs, it's uniquely designed in the shape of an aubergine (eggplant) a beloved motif in Japanese culture symbolizing good fortune and fertility. It rests on a beautifully carved leaf shaped wooden base, creating a natural and harmonious presentation.
Made from natural wood, the piece is artfully colored using traditional wood-burning techniques (yaki-iro). The resulting hues range from rich, smoky browns to deep, charred black at the stem—perfectly mimicking the look of a real aubergine while adding warmth and character through natural gradients.
On the rounded body of the eggplant is a subtly etched and painted face. The face is softly framed by the lighter, untouched wood grain, giving it a gentle and welcoming expression. The doll sits atop a wooden leaf, skillfully carved and veined, grounding the aubergine figure in a seasonal and natural context evoking freshness and harvest.
