Artisan | Woodworker: Hideo (Kei)

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:

One of the oldest of legends is the story of the elderly couple, Joo and Uba, who is lovingly called Jotomba. Collectively, they are also referred to as Takasago, because, according to legend, they first appeared in the midst of Lake Takasago, near the Inland Sea. Jotomba represents a couple living in perfect harmony, growing old together, and symbolizing a lifetime of happiness. In this beautifully rendered drawing on the doll, we see Uba with a broom in her hands, and Joo, with a rake in his. Together, they are sweeping away trouble and raking in good fortune throughout their lives. Additionally, we see a turtle, a crane, and the traditional rising sun. All are important symbols in Japan. 

Artist's Signature: