Mid-Century Japanese Flying Father Christmas Ornament – Spun Cotton & Feather Wings – c.1950s–60s

A wonderfully whimsical mid-century Christmas ornament, crafted in Japan during the 1950s–60s and beautifully preserved in its charming original form. Fashioned from spun cotton with a soft felt cap, chenille trim and delicately applied real feather wings, this light and airy figure captures the playful imagination of Japanese post-war festive design. Father Christmas, rendered in miniature, appears mid-flight atop a glitter-tipped bird – an enchanting, dreamlike motif seen only in early Japanese export ornaments.

The surface retains its authentic mid-century palette of soft whites and festive reds, with subtle mica glittering across the beak and trimmings. A delightfully characterful piece, brimming with period craftsmanship and visual appeal.

This ornament comes with oral provenance indicating that it once formed part of the Bletchley Museum collection, a gentle and intriguing association which lends an additional layer of historical interest. (No written documentation accompanies this account.)

Dimensions:

Approx. 12–13cm in length (including wingspan)

Condition:

Age-related wear consistent with mid-century Japanese materials – light surface scuffs, natural ageing to the spun cotton and feathers. Presents beautifully and remains structurally sound for display.

A rare and wonderfully imaginative Japanese Christmas ornament – a collector’s delight with a story to tell.