This vintage Sosaku Kokeshi figure, titled Yukake (Red Sunset) and crafted by artist Hideo Ishihara, features hand-carved and painted bamboo stalks across its wooden torso. The design captures the imagery of a Japanese poem about bamboo moving in the wind against an evening sky, representing strength, longevity, and fresh starts.
The doll displays a simple, serene facial expression paired with a traditional mage topknot hairstyle and front bangs. Deep red hues form the background of the body beneath vertical bamboo line work, framing the silhouette. On the underside of the base, the piece bears Ishihara’s impressed red artist seal.
Artisan Note
Hideo Ishihara was a visionary leader in the Sosaku (creative) kokeshi movement. Despite a career cut short by illness, he earned over 60 awards, including the prestigious Prime Minister’s Award. His work, influenced by his background in science and painting, gained international fame. Today, he is remembered as a founder of the Nippon Kokeshi Artistic Handicraft Association and a master of blending nature-inspired motifs with clean, graphic aesthetics.
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Height (approx.): 25.7 cm
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Weight (approx): 390 g
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Condition: very good vintage condition with minimal scratches (see images for details).
Please note that all items in my shop are vintage and may show signs of age, including scratches, tarnishing, and other imperfections that add to their character. Please refer to the photos for a detailed view of each item's condition. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out before purchasing. All images are of the actual product. However, please be aware that colors may appear slightly different on screen due to display settings.
