This elegant sosaku (creative) kokeshi doll was handcrafted by Issetsu Kuribayashi. Born in 1926 in Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture, Kuribayashi is considered a pioneer of the sosaku movement and a founding member of the Yonezawa Miyukikai in 1960. He received the prestigious Prime Minister’s Award at the Kokeshi Doll Exhibition, and his works have been exhibited internationally, including in Germany.
The doll has a tall, slender form with a gently rounded head and a serene, minimalist facial expression. The body is finished in a deep green tone and decorated with subtle, abstract floral motifs that harmonize with the natural wood grain. The overall composition reflects a refined balance between simplicity and artistic expression, characteristic of Kuribayashi’s work.
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Height (approx.): 33 cm
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Weight (approx): 380 gram
Condition: Very good vintage condition. Minor scratches and age-related wear (see images for details).
Japanese kokeshi dolls are traditional wooden figures, first made by craftsmen in northern Japan over 150 years ago. Originally sold as souvenirs in hot spring towns, they were believed to bring good luck, protect children, and even serve as spiritual charms. Each kokeshi is hand-carved from wood, with a simple yet elegant shape—a round head and a straight, limbless body. They are often painted with floral or geometric patterns and have calm, minimalist facial features. Over time, kokeshi evolved from folk toys into collectible art pieces, with different regions creating their own unique styles and designs.
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.
