Vintage Japanese Kokeshi Doll, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0270

Vintage Japanese Kokeshi Doll, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0270

A boldly painted sosaku-style kokeshi with sweeping chrysanthemum motifs and an artisan signature -- a standout piece of vintage Japanese folk art.

A kokeshi is a traditional Japanese turned-wood doll, handcrafted by skilled artisans known as kijishi on a lathe, then painted entirely by hand. Originating as souvenir gifts sold at hot spring resorts in the Tohoku region, kokeshi have long been cherished as symbols of Japanese craftsmanship and regional folk culture. This tall, statuesque example displays the expressive freedom of the sosaku (creative) style -- distinct from strictly regional traditional forms -- with bold, gestural brushwork covering the cylindrical body in sweeping red and black chrysanthemum blooms set against a warm natural wood ground. The spherical head is painted with serene facial features, flowing black hair parted at the center, and small red hair ornaments, capturing the quiet elegance associated with vintage Japanese craft. Lathe-turned ring bands in red and green accent the neck and base, and the flat underside bears a handwritten artisan signature in brushed ink alongside fine concentric lathe marks -- hallmarks of individual, hand-finished work.

This kokeshi makes a striking living room accent or shelf display in any Japandi style or wabi-sabi aesthetic interior, where its warm natural tones and graphic floral decoration draw the eye without overwhelming a space. Stand it alone on a console table or entryway shelf as a sculptural focal point, group it with smaller kokeshi for a collected display, or feature it on a mantle or bookcase as a conversation piece. Its tall, slender form and vibrant hand-painted surface make it a truly unique gift for collectors, Japanophiles, or anyone who appreciates handcrafted Japanese decorative art.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Turned wood with hand-applied pigments; wood species not confirmed from images -- pale, close-grained, consistent with commonly used lathe woods of the period
• Use: Decorative folk doll; originally sold as a souvenir or display piece
• Modern Use: Living room or entryway accent; shelf or mantle display in a Japandi or wabi-sabi interior; unique gift for collectors or Japanophiles
• Features: Tall cylindrical body with lathe-turned ring bands at neck and base in red and green; large spherical head with painted black hair, red hair ornaments, and serene facial features; bold chrysanthemum floral motifs in red and black covering the full body; plain natural wood reverse; artisan signature in brushed ink with concentric lathe marks on the base
• Dimensions: 5"Diameter x 19 1/2"H
• Condition: Excellent

A vibrant and sculptural piece of vintage Japanese folk art -- this hand-painted kokeshi brings warmth, character, and a genuine artisan spirit to any modern home.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.