Japanese Kokeshi doll Momiji

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 近代創作こけし modern creative Kokeshi doll is called ‘もみじ Momiji‘ and it was created by an award-winning artist ‘いづみ Izumi‘.

Momiji is autumn red leaves.

Her Kimono and obi as well as her head decoration are all designed with Momiji.

Kyoto will have red carpet everywhere with momiji during November to early December and if you have visited there at this time of the year, you will understand the beauty of it.

Since each piece is carefully made by hand, her piece is a rare work with a small number of productions.
The artist was studying Japanese painting and she also uses Japanese painting to colour kokeshi dolls.
Therefore, the lines drawn on the kokeshi dolls are sophisticated and beautiful, and the colors are similar to those of Japanese paintings.

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.