Artisan | Woodworker: Dewa, Kanhichi | 5th Generation Katsuryu

Origin: No Biography

Historically, the Japanese have been a very modest people. Japanese artists, in particular, felt their work spoke for them, and so for centuries, creative efforts by many artists, with the exception of woodblock prints, were unsigned, yet were easily recognized by the public through a specific style and the artists’ unique personalities. As collectors we felt it was most important to represent all Traditional and Sosaku Kokeshi, whether or not the artist has been identified, their seal, or artistic signature translated, or a written account of this artist’s life. Each show the diversity of this cultural specialization and the creative work produced by this artist.

Collector's note – Descriptive qualities/standard characteristics/ornamentation styles:

This 8-1/2”h figure was said to have been inspired by Matsuo Basho, who was born in 1644, and was the most famous poet of the Edo period in Japan. During his lifetime, Basho was recognized for his works in the collaborative ‘haikai no renga’ form. Today, after centuries of commentary, he is recognized as the greatest master of Haiku. A sensitive poet may need to rest aloof of odious common living, at least from time to time. Living a life that was in true accord with the gentle spirit of his poetry, Basho maintained an austere, simple hermitage – a simple hut – where he withdrew from society altogether. The doll is in honor of this revered Japanese poet, and based on research. It appears that this is the only doll made by this artist. The facial details and flowers are both carved into the figure and painted.

Artist's Signature: