Description This unique Kappa tableau is in good condition with only minor scratches and stains though the entire piece is a bit dusty and wears a darkened patina suggestive of age and past display. This doll display dates from the mid to late Japanese Showa period (1929-1989). Size: Height: 3.9 inches (10.0 centimeters) Weight: 1.9 ounces (55 grams) More about Kappa Do you remember how you felt after the first time you saw the film “Jaws”? If you lived near the ocean then you likely never swam quite as far from shore after seeing the movie than you may have before. That feeling is probably precisely what most pre-modern Japanese felt whenever they even approached a river, lake or stream. This is because the “Jaws” of old Japan was not any huge man-eating shark, but instead was a rather small water imp called Kappa who lived in family groups wherever fresh water ran quiet and deep. Though small in stature (about the size of an 8 to 10 year old child) the average Kappa was nevertheless very strong and capable of grabbing and dragging into the water animals much larger than itself including horses, cattle and of course, unwary people. Though mischievous and slightly evil, Kappa were nevertheless thought to respect the authority of those they deemed virtuous (especially any who could overcome them) and may become loyal and helpful to such individuals. Kappa are members of the Suijin group of Japanese Shinto (native religion of Japan) water deities which include enchanted …