Beautiful Vintage kokeshi by Masae Fujikawa (1942-2015).

Beautiful Vintage kokeshi by Masae Fujikawa (1942-2015).

Born in Gunma prefer in 1942 and began making kokeshi dolls at the age of 17 (1959). Won numerous awards including winning twice the prestigious prime minister award.

Signed on the bottom by the Kokeshi maker

Artisan | Woodworker: Tadashi Fujikawa, Masae (Shoei) 1942-2015

Size 16 x 7 x 5 cm

Japanese doll called Kokeshi of the early 20th century.

Provenance from the northern Japan.

Dolls shapes and patterns are particular to a certain area and are classified under eleven types, this doll is a Tohgatta type.

Handmade by Japanese artisants from wood. Have a simple trunk as a body and an enlarged head. One characteristic of Kokeshi dolls is their lack of arms and legs.

Painted by hand with lines to define the face and the body painted with floral motive, covered with a layer of wax. Doll is marked with the signature of the artist in the bottom.

In good original condition, with minor wear consistent with age and use, preserving a beautiful patina.

The Kokeshi dolls is said that were originally made by wood cravers of Shinchi Shuraku, during the middle of the Edo period (1600-1868) to be sold to people who were visiting the hot springs of Togatta in Zao.