Old Vintage NARUKO KOKESHI Wooden Doll Master Signed, Japan

Description: Thank you for looking. Please visit my other listings of contemporary and antique Japanese art. Authentic dento ("traditional") Kokeshi from Naruko, Miyagi prefecture, Japan. This is an old vintage figurine - likely from the 1950s, but possibly significantly earlier. Signed by the artist. Very authentic. The wood shows beautiful ageing, which gives this doll a captivating vintage charm. In line with the Naruko tradition, the doll's head turns.Please note that this doll is quite different from many small or miniature kokeshi you see offered on this site - it measures approximately 12 inches (30 cm) in height and weighs approximately 1.6 lbs (732 g). The head diameter is approximately 3.5” inches (8,8 cm) and foot diameter is 2.9 inches (7.2 cm). The larger size will make this doll a visible accent in your home. The wood is very well preserved (there are no cracks or splits); however, this is a vintage figurine and there is ageing/wear in the lacquer finish - please review the images. About Naruko Kokeshi Dento kokeshi have been produced mostly in the Tohoku district in northeastern Honshu, Japan. Traditional kokeshi is characterized by its distinct style that remains little changed. Old kokeshi are praised for their authentic character and are often collectible items.Naruko style kokeshi are some of the most famous dento kokeshi. This style dates back to the late Edo period (c.1603-1867) when wooden bowl and tray makers crafted them for their own kids as well as those of their neighbors. Gradually the dolls became popular as decorative figurines appreciated by adults, paving a way for a big collecting hobby thriving in Japan and all around the world. In 1981 Naruko kokeshi dolls were designated as a national traditional handicraft by the Japanese government. Naruko kokeshi dolls have a cute, innocent expression, and their tied bangs and red hair ornaments are very charming. The design features two or three chrysanthemums seen from the side, painted on top of each other on the body. Another well-known pattern is the "hishikiku (rhombus chrysanthemum)," which is a glossy blooming chrysanthemum seen from directly above. These patterns are can be expressed either alone or in combination. Chrysanthemums are the most common, but patterns of maples, peonies, caresses, and irises are also found. Another distinctive feature of Naruko Kokeshi is the squeaking sound the dolls make when the head is turned. The technique of fitting the protrusion of the head into the hole in the body while turning the wheel is something only a skilled kokeshi craftsman can do. The wood surface is comfortable to the hand and has a pleasant feel to the touch that makes you want to hold it all the time. Their classical forms reveal the talents of the artisans who lived in the mountains decades ago. Graceful yet rustic, these dolls are a testament to both the beauty of nature and the skill of the craftsmen. These kokeshi vary in size. The smaller ones are carried around or displayed on a shelf, while larger ones can be over one meter tall and can be placed on the floor. Each one has a different face and pattern, so it is fun to collect them! #88

Price: 35 USD

Location: New York, New York

End Time: 2024-12-08T17:25:12.000Z

Shipping Cost: 11.95 USD