Vintage NARUKO SCHOOL KOKESHI Wooden Doll Japan Signed by Artist - Medium 8.5\" For Sale

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Vintage NARUKO SCHOOL KOKESHI Wooden Doll Japan Signed by Artist - Medium 8.5\":
$27.00

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Authentic vintagedento(\"traditional\") kokeshi figurine,Naruko School, from Miyagi prefecture, Japan.Signed by the artist. Dates back most likely to the 1970s.

This is a medium size figurine, with a lot ofauthentic character and vintage feeling.

Height: approx. 8.6inches
Head diameter: approx. 2.3 inches
Food diameter: approx. 1.9 inches
Weight: 211 g

Naruko Kokeshi

Dento kokeshi have been produced mostly in the Tohoku district in northeastern Honshu, Japan. Dento 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!

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