Traditional Kokeshi Doll inn Polychrome Wood, 1940s

Details

Description

Traditional Kokeshi Doll, Polychrome Wood, 1940s – Japan

Exceptional kokeshi doll, a type of traditional doll of Japanese origin. These … Read more Traditional Kokeshi Doll, Polychrome Wood, 1940s – Japan

Exceptional kokeshi doll, a type of traditional doll of Japanese origin. These dolls are handcrafted by kijishi (a term referring to local woodcarvers) and have a variety of meanings, such as the wish for a child, a good harvest, or a sign of love. Each doll is unique, as each artisan creates a different face on the dolls they make and signs the piece, as can be seen on the base. This doll is a work of art, unique in the world, as no one is exactly alike. It will add a very pleasant exotic touch to any room that will impress anyone, thanks to its delicate and sweet features.

About Kokeshi Dolls

More than 200 years ago, during the Edo Period (1603–1867), dolls called kokeshi first appeared. It is thought that they were created by Japanese artisans in Tohoku to offer to visitors to the region's hot springs—their purpose was to create a distinctive object that would stand out from the typical bowls they made.

Kijishi were very skilled at making wooden objects, which were in high demand among tourists. As a result, kokeshi became one of the most popular souvenirs, and the local economy boomed.

There is only one way to make a kokeshi doll: it must be both hand-made and hand-painted by a kijishi artisan, and it must always be made of wood. They are signed by the master craftsman who created them, giving them great value, as it indicates that they were made using a preciously preserved technique. Regarding the wood, it is common to work with mizuki (cornouiller) or itaye-kaede (Japanese maple). Craftspeople prefer these woods because they are soft and resistant to carving, although there are dolls made from other types of wood, such as cherry. The important thing is that any wood must be air-dried for at least a year.

Material: Carved and polychrome wood
Period: 1940s
Country: Tohoku, Japan
Good condition according to its age and use
Dimensions: 47 x 13 x 13 cm See less