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AB 84-15

Folk Toys and Games

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What is it?
Firefly Cage
What is it made of?
Straw
Where is it from?
Japan
When was it made?
ca. 1980-1984
Object ID
AB 84-15
Description

This small firefly cage, or hotaru kago, is made of barley straw twisted into a spiral shape with a hole at the top and a braided handle. In Japan, children traditionally catch fireflies on the riverbanks in June. These types of cages are very traditional in form and used in the countryside. This cage was made by the artist Tome Momota at age 77.

Credit
Donated by Mr. Keitaro Takayama, 1984
AB 84-15 Firefly Cage