These dolls are the O-Hina, the honourable dolls.
"Peeps at Many Lands: Japan"
John Finnemore
When the O-Hina Matsuri, the Feast of Dolls, draws near, the Japanese shops begin to be full of the little images used at that time.
"Peeps at Many Lands: Japan"
John Finnemore
The O-Hina of a great noble's house will often be worth a fortune, having hundreds of beautifully carved and dressed images to represent the Emperor and Empress and every official of the Japanese Court, with every article used for State functions, and every piece of furniture needed to deck a royal palace.
"Peeps at Many Lands: Japan"
John Finnemore