Artisan | Woodworker: Iguchi, Hiroshi

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:

The use of many different wood stains and carved treatment, suggest clothing, (Kinomo and Obi), and with simulated hair, are the signs of the Sosaku Kokeshi are very evident. Incorporated into the Kimono are Chrysanthemums with a background executed in Rokuro-moyo to give a three-dimensional effect.  It is important to realize that within the Japanese art world there have been many shifts in perspective as to what constitutes “art” and what constitutes “craft.”

As a result, all of the elements have helped blur the lines of distinction as to what is considered art and high craft, which fall under the umbrella of Ningyo, in the process, opening up the field for all collectors of dolls.

Artist's Signature: