3个传统的Kokeshi木娃娃 - 木 - 日本 - Shōwa period (1926-1989)

本批次 consists of three charming examples of traditional Japanese Kokeshi dolls, handcrafted wooden folk toys originating from the Tōhoku region of northern Japan. These dolls are highly appreciated by collectors of Japanese folk art (mingei) for their minimalist form, expressive faces, and hand-painted decorations.

Each doll is turned from a single piece of wood and decorated using traditional techniques. The first doll features a classic cylindrical body decorated with bold red camellia-like floral motifs and horizontal bands, while the large rounded head with softly smiling facial expression reflects the warm character typical of traditional Kokeshi.

The second doll has a more slender body with subtle red gradation and stylized leaf motifs painted in black. The head is proportionally smaller, giving it a distinctive silhouette often associated with postwar regional Kokeshi variations.

The third doll is particularly interesting, featuring finely carved vertical ridges on the body and a pyrography (wood-burning) style landscape decoration depicting a pagoda and mountain scenery. This type of decorative approach reflects a later development in Kokeshi design when artisans experimented with engraved and burned imagery.

The bases show hand-written signatures and markings, indicating the work of individual craftsmen. These dolls were likely produced during the Shōwa period (1926–1989), most probably in the mid to late Shōwa era (approx. 1950s–1970s), when Kokeshi collecting became popular throughout Japan.

With their warm patina, hand-painted decoration, and authentic folk character, these dolls represent a beautiful example of Japanese traditional craft culture and would make an attractive addition to any collection of Japanese folk art, vintage toys, or Asian decorative objects.

The items show natural aging and gentle wear consistent with their age, which enhances their vintage character. Please refer carefully to the photographs for the overall condition.

Please note that the Coca-Cola can shown in the photographs is for size reference only and is not included in the lot.

Artist / Craftsman Profile
Traditional Kokeshi dolls originated in the Edo period (1603–1868) as handmade toys produced by woodworkers in the hot spring towns of the Tōhoku region. These artisans, known as kiji-shi (wood turners), created simple dolls from leftover wood pieces while producing bowls and trays.

During the Shōwa period (1926–1989), Kokeshi production expanded significantly and many individual craftsmen developed distinctive regional styles, characterized by unique head shapes, facial expressions, and painted motifs such as flowers, leaves, and landscapes.

Today, vintage Kokeshi from the Shōwa era are appreciated worldwide as collectible examples of Japanese mingei (folk craft), valued for their handcrafted individuality and artistic simplicity.

Size
Left doll
Approx: H20 × W6 × D6 cm — 178 g

Center doll
Approx: H24 × W6 × D6 cm — 319 g

Right doll
Approx: H21 × W6 × D6 cm — 216 g

Condition:(Please see the photos)
- It is in vintage condition.
- Due to aging, there may be some scratches, stains or dirt.
- Please note that the actual impression may differ depending on the lighting conditions when taking photos.

Shipping
The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by mainly Japan Post or DHL depend on the situation.
It will be shipped from Japan, so it takes about 2-3 weeks to receive normally.

Please understand that we use recycled materials (cardboard, old newspapers, etc.)
as much as possible for packaging materials in order to protect the environment.

Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost.
These charges are the buyer's responsibility.

Sometimes Customs or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email.
Please make sure that you could answer their contact.
If you don't, the parcel will be returned to us and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping.

Thank you for your cooperation.