Vintage Sosaku Kokeshi entitled: “Oshinobi dochu | Traveling Incognito” by Kon, Akira (Seiju)

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Dimensions: 9-1/4”h 

Kon-san is only one of three other artists, (Ryoichi, Kato, and Hiroshi) who also made interpretations of this stylized Heian noblewomen. Women from families of high rank enjoyed a certain aspect of freedom during the period. These privileged women were well educated in music, poetry, art, fashion, and calligraphy, all part of a Heian woman's education, which gave them more freedom than the general female population.

He beautifully details this lovely doll incorporating his style of elongated face, and wonderfully long hair, similar to hair worn during the Heian period and defined as flowing hair. Women’s foreheads were emphasized with two black marks referred to as ‘Bindi’ decoration, (traditionally, the area between the eyebrows) is said to be the sixth chakra, ajna, the seat of "concealed wisdom”, and is said to retain energy and strengthen concentration. Additionally, elongated foreheads are prized by the Japanese representing beauty, elegance, and fashion. As seen in the upper portion of this figure is a layered Kimono ornamented with blue flowers showing on clothing worn for travel: an oversized hat in contrasting paulownia wood,  and a heavy garment to ward off the chill, fore which the entire figure is minimally decorated  and made of pear wood, (Nashi). This piece, which is mounted onto an octagonal dais/base to present the figure properly, and is one of his older model and unsigned because prior to 1970 not all artists signed pieces because they were known by the locals visiting the onsens/spas. 

Condition: Excellent and beautiful example and condition. The doll retains the original craft/workmanship and painted decoration showing a wonderfully-developed patina and commensurate with age and unrestored. This doll meets all the standards of Sosaku Kokeshi collectibles and is a rare piece for the collectors of Seiju.