u/bellstek_net

Front row from left : Alice (first appeared in 2008/2010 version), Emily (first appeared in 2011/2022 version), Himari (first appeared in 2015/2021 version), Sakura (first appeared in 2010/2015 version)

Middle row from left: Misaki (first appeared in 2014/first edition),Tsubasa (first appeared in 2014/2016 version), Miyu (first appeared in 2012/first edition), Vicky-chan (first appeared in 2012)

Back row, from left : Hina (first appeared in 2011/2013 version), Maria (first appeared in 2007/first edition), Karen (first appeared in 2019/first edition), Seira (first appeared in 2020)

Their hairstyles are not the original state. Their bodies have been replaced.

The 2nd generation Licca was sold from 1972 to 1982. During this period, her design gradually transformed.

The body structure was changed twice during this period. The early period had the same structure as the 1st generation, whilst the later period was identical to that of the early 3rd generation. Along with the body, the shape of the head also changed. Furthermore, between the mid-period—from 1974 to 1980—the head changed twice. Based on these, the 2nd generation Licca can be divided into five types.

There is also a reissue of the second-generation Licca. This was produced in 2002 to mark Licca’s 25th anniversary. It is the one in the centre of the front row in the photograph.

The dolls in the photograph have been fitted with the current fourth-generation-size bodies. The hair clips have been made to mimic the originals.

Some met me in a shop in Nihonbashi when I visited Tokyo; some were in a shop in Kobe later on; some I found at the event in department stores; and some arrived via mail order. Their stories are varied, but as if drawn to one another, their numbers have gradually increased to 20 now.

Just on a whim, I’ve called together all the ‘Castle-Born’ who are in my place!