1987.30 a-b; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum

Princess Yaegaki Doll

Artifact ID1987.30 a-b

Date Unknown

Medium ceramic, paint, silk, thread, tassel, metal, glass

DimensionsOverall H 29 in x W 14 in x D 17 in (73.7 cm x 35.6 cm x 43.2 cm )

Physical Description(a) A doll with an ornate decoration in her black hair is dressed in an orange brocade kimono decorated with gold, black, and white floral designs. Her proper right arm is outstretched. She holds a matching fan in her proper left hand.

(b) A tall rectangular glass display case is bordered by black metal along the edges. A small gold tassel is attached to the door.
Historical NoteMutsuko Miki, wife of Japanese Prime Minister Takeo Miki, gifted this doll to First Lady Betty Ford on August 5, 1975. Like Betty Ford, Mutsuko Miki was a prominent political activist in her own right, advocating for Japanese pacifism, official compensation for comfort women, and improved relations with North Korea. The doll depicts Princess Yaegaki, the heroine of a historical drama called Honcho nijushi ko, or “Japan’s Twenty-four Paragons of Filial Piety.”Additional Details

Custodial History NoteA foreign official gifted the item to First Lady Betty Ford during the Ford Administration. It was presented to her and was maintained at the Executive Office of the President until its transfer to the National Archives in September 1981 for deposit with the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum.

National Archives Catalog CollectionGerald R. Ford Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 620931)

National Archives Catalog SeriesHead of State Gifts Given to President Gerald R. Ford (74639696)

Use Restriction Status Unrestricted

Use Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.

Collections

Head of State Gifts