Vintage Creative Japanese Kokeshi Doll

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Vintage Sosaku Kokeshi Doll signed by the artist Sugai Sato characterized by a cylindrical wooden body and stylized painted face. … Read more Vintage Sosaku Kokeshi Doll signed by the artist Sugai Sato characterized by a cylindrical wooden body and stylized painted face. He is known for motifs such as bamboo leaves and a unique hairstyle bun. You can see his background in fashion in his dolls. The doll is a form of Japanese folk handicraft, often hand-turned and hand-painted. Sato-san, named Sadahachi, was born in Okubo, Yoshioka Village, Gunma Prefecture, to a family who owned a silk trading business. At the age of 18, he began his professional career as a painter under the famous artist Komuro, Suiun, before pursuing a career in creative Kokeshi making in 1946. Sato-san also pursued careers in fashion design, engineering, and mechanics. In 1970, he was recognized for his wood crafting skills and named Holder of Excellent Technique. His Kokeshi dolls have won many awards, including the Prime Minister’s Award in 1966. In 1970, Sato-san’s artistry was recognized by Japan’s Imperial Family, Crown Prince Akihito, (Now Emperor Akihito), the Minister of Economy and Trade, and the Minister of Agriculture and Forestry. He is a member of the Cultural Properties Protections Committee of Hakone. His Kokeshi dolls are wonderful pieces of art.

What is unique to this artist’s dolls is the unusual but traditional hairstyle, he utilizes an uncolored wood obi on both plain and vividly colored Kimono that are very tall, made in two separate sections from the same piece of wood, and joined with a connecting dowel. He regularly captures a peaceful nature in his doll's faces, complementing the serene nature that fills the countryside. See less