2 Japanese Kokeshi dolls Aka & Shiraume

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 these Kokeshi dolls

This 近代創作こけし modern creative Kokeshi doll is called ‘赤梅’ ‘白梅’  ‘Akaume’ & ‘Shiraume’ and it was created by an award-winning artist ‘佐々木克己 Sasaki Katsumi‘.

It will be nice to decorate two dolls next to each other.

The shape of Kokeshi doll is similar to those of traditional Kokeshi.  They have a lovely smile and a matching hat and clothing.

I’m sure that it is very hard to draw lines by hand on a round shaped wood, but they are perfectly painted and I think it is a work of God!

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.

Would you like Furoshiki gift wrapping?

Furoshiki are Japanese traditional wrapping cloths.  It is an eco-friendly gift wrapping; the receiver can re-use it as a place mat and wall decoration, wrapping bento/lunch box, a tissue box and a book!

We can do gift wrapping with Furoshiki for you!

1. Have a look at 50cm Furoshiki from here.

2. Add it to your cart

3. Write in the order note that it is a gift and you would like Furoshiki gift wrapping.