-Three iconic Japanese wooden dolls, handcrafted in northern Japan
-The tallest doll is 5.25” tall, the base is 20.6mm in diameter, the middle doll is 4.2” tall, the base is 22mm in diameter, and the smallest doll is 1.88” tall, the base is 12.5mm in diameter,
-Made in the Naguro style
-These delicate dolls have slightly narrow waists
-Only the largest doll is in the naruko, or crying child, style, where the head squeaks when turned
-The largest doll is painted with front and side bangs in deep black, and ornamented with several maple leaves in red and green on the body and the top of the head
-The middle size doll is painted with only side bangs, and one large maple leaf in red and green on the body
-The smallest doll is painted with side bangs and an extremely delicate rendering of irises in red and green on the body
-Made by Osamu Sugawara
-Each doll is signed by the maker
-Each kokeshi comes with a package of non-staining Museum Putty to secure your doll
NOTE All kokeshi are included in our $8 Flat Shipping Rate and can be combined with any fabric order
The iconic wooden dolls from Japan were originally made as souvenirs for hot springs in northern Japan. Once given as toys to children, today kokeshi are collected as irresistible examples of Japanese folk art.
Crafted by woodworkers known as kijishi, no two kokeshi are alike. The wooden shapes, painted motifs, and facial features are all characteristic of the specific region where the kokeshi are made.
To learn more about kokeshi +click here
To meet Sally Crowe and her kokeshi family +click here
The patterns on the kokeshi are created with water-soluble paints and dyes so they are non-toxic. Do not wash your doll with water but instead wipe with a dry cloth.
The painted patterns will fade over time and the wood will age to a tawny patina. This adds to the beauty of your kokeshi.
To secure your doll, be sure to use the provided Museum Putty.
Okan Arts sources vintage kokeshi from collectors across Japan.
Note that these dolls are pre-owned and may have small scratches or flaws to the finish.
Also, the photos of the kokeshi may not show completely accurate colors due to the varying calibrations of device screens.