About This Piece A wooden kokeshi doll featuring a dramatically painted carp leaping powerfully from the water, with realistically detailed scales, fins, and white splashes, creating a striking contrast with the adorable young boy's slightly sulky expression and softly flushed cheeks. Carp and Waterfall Design The most distinctive feature of this piece is the Carp Climbing the Waterfall (鯉の滝登り) motif painted prominently across the body. The carp is depicted bursting from the water and leaping upward, captured with realistic detail and bold, powerful brushwork. Its eyes, whiskers, open mouth, overlapping scales, pectoral fins, dorsal fin, and tail are all carefully rendered. Particularly striking are the individually detailed scales and the dramatic curve of the carp's body as it rises from the water. The splashes created as the carp breaks through the water's surface are finely depicted in white paint. The contrast between the dark tones of the water and the bright white splashes emphasizes the dynamic movement of the scene. Another distinctive feature is the natural wood grain of the kokeshi itself. Its flowing patterns blend with the varying tones of the painted landscape surrounding the carp, making the natural markings of the wood an integral part of the composition. Meaning of the Motif Carp Climbing the Waterfall (鯉の滝登り) originates from a Chinese legend in which a carp that successfully ascends a powerful waterfall transforms into a dragon, symbolizing the ability to overcome difficulties, achieve success, and grow strong and healthy. In Japan, this auspicious motif is particularly associated with wishes for a young boy's healthy growth and future success, and this kokeshi was created to express such hopes for a young child. Design and Expression The large, rounded head features dark brown bobbed hair, with fine lines depicting its flowing strands. Narrow eyes, a small nose, and a slightly downturned red mouth create the charming expression of a young boy who appears just a little sulky. Delicate touches of pale red on the cheeks convey the softness of a young child's face. The simple cylindrical body features a red collar, while the light-colored natural wood, dark brown hair, and restrained red accents create a harmonious appearance. The boy's gentle, endearing expression contrasts beautifully with the wild, powerful carp painted across the body. About the Artist Usaburō Okamoto (岡本卯三郎, 1917–2009) was a Japanese kokeshi artist from Gunma Prefecture who founded Usaburō Kokeshi (卯三郎こけし) in 1950 and contributed to the development of creative kokeshi by introducing original designs and innovative techniques to the traditional wooden doll. His achievements include the Prime Minister's Award, the Minister of Education's Award, and the Director-General of the Forestry Agency's Award. His works have also been purchased by the Imperial Household Agency, while collaborations with contemporary artist Takashi Murakami (村上隆) and international distribution to more than ten countries have helped establish the Usaburō Kokeshi name among collectors in Japan and abroad. Signature and Seal The side of the body bears the artist's signature and a red seal. A label reading "Usaburō Kokeshi" (卯三郎こけし) is attached to the underside. Condition The piece has been stored for an extended period but remains in good overall condition. There is some discoloration from long-term storage and a few minor scratches, but no major noticeable scratches or stains. Please refer to the photographs for a detailed assessment of its condition. Important Information 1. About the Interior Display Images Images showing the piece displayed in an interior setting have been virtually created to illustrate how it may look when displayed indoors. The piece itself has not been edited or altered in these images. For the actual size of the piece, please refer to the dimensions stated in the description. For its actual color and condition, please refer to the photographs taken directly of the piece on its own. 2. Shipping to Italy Shipments to Italy may be subject to additional inspections at the discretion of the Italian customs authorities. Any costs arising from such inspections are the responsibility of the buyer. Additional inspections may also cause delays in customs clearance and delivery. Please take these possibilities into consideration before purchasing. 3. Shipping, Import Duties, and Customs Clearance The item will be carefully packaged and shipped via DHL or Japan Post. The usual delivery time is approximately 1–2 weeks, although customs procedures and local delivery conditions may result in longer delivery times. Import duties, taxes, customs clearance fees, and any other related charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. Any such charges incurred in the destination country are the responsibility of the buyer. If the item is returned due to refusal to pay import duties, taxes, or other customs-related charges, refusal to accept delivery, or failure to complete the required customs procedures, the buyer will be responsible for all costs associated with the return and reshipment of the item. Please ensure that you understand and accept these conditions.