Vintage Traditional Kokeshi doll Togatta style 31cm

What is Kokeshi

Kokeshi is a Japanese wooden doll, hand-made from wood with no arms or legs.

There are two types of Kokeshi; ‘伝統こけし Traditional Kokeshi’ and ‘創作こけし Creative Kokeshi’.

“伝統こけし Traditional Kokeshi” is a folk art specially produced in the Tohoku region that occurred in the latter half of the Edo period, using the same techniques handed over from masters to pupils.

“創作こけし Creative Kokeshi” is modeled by the author’s individual free ideas and is produced using original techniques.  The trend was riding since 1947 after World War II.

Since 1954, the Prime Minister’s Award has been awarded to the best work of ‘the creative Kokeshi doll’ contest.  Since then, creative activities have become more active and the work of famous artists have been evaluated as unique arts and crafts.

About this Kokeshi

This is an original vintage Traditional Kokeshi doll, signed by a craftsman Sato Tatsuo of Yajiro style.

The most distinctive feature of Yajiro Kokeshi dolls is the potter’s wheel pattern, which is made up of overlapping colorful lines. The potter’s wheel pattern on its head makes it look like the kokeshi doll is wearing a stylish beret.

Born on March 3, 1945, After graduating from Shiroishi City Fukuoka Junior High School in 1955, he learned woodworking under his older brother Tatsuo, who was 13 years older than him. He also made kokeshi dolls, but in 1961 he changed jobs and left woodwork. Therefore, the production period is short and the number of works is not large.

You can have a look at this video to see how a Kokeshi is handcrafted.  It is also so calming to watch how it is being made.