Vintage Traditional Kokeshi doll Togatta style by Sato Tadashi 30cm

Vintage Traditional Kokeshi doll

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

Rare item

Craftsman: Sato Tadashi (1932-)

This is a vintage Traditional Kokeshi doll – Togatta style by Sato Tadashi, produced in Miyagi prefecture of Japan.

It is Togatta (遠刈田) style which has a relatively large head and a thin body.  The patterns applied are hand-painted flower patterns, and in addition, stylized chrysanthemum flowers.  Red radial patterns are drawn on the top of the head and around the forehead.  An iris is painted at the back of the body.

Many of the eyes are crescent-shaped and long-cut, and the gentle expression that makes them smile is a big attraction.

There is a signature at the bottom of the doll.