Vintage Nambu Hanamaki Traditional Kokeshi by Sasaki, Kakuhei
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Dimensions: 9-1/2” h
Offered is a very unique and unusual bell, or cone-shaped Kokeshi by Sasaki, Kakuhei (b. 1933). One of the distinguishing features of this doll is that it has a hair in a Bob, black, circular pattern without much decoration on the head. The face is framed with elongated side hair fringes with Hire-Mabuta, (single lid) eyes with matching eyebrows. It has the standard Neko-Bana, (cat’s nose), and red lips. Beyond that, the Birch, (Kabanoki), wood is void of decoration ,emphasizing the two-piece body form reminiscent of wearing a Michiyuki (traveling coat), which is traditionally worn on top of a kimono. Shown are two levels of the body differentiating these garments. The piece has its name, and is signed by the artist on the bottom of the figure.
For further information see our section entitled “Browse by Family”, Japanese Traditional Kokeshi | Nambu/Kina-Kina-Kei (Family).
Condition: Excellent and beautiful condition affording the doll age-old elegance. Retains the original craft/workmanship showing a wonderfully-developed patina and commensurate with age and unrestored. The piece meets all the standards of Traditional Kokeshi collectibles.
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Japanese Traditional Kokeshi | Nambu/Kina-Kina-Kei (Family)
Prefecture: Awata
Origin:
This family of traditional dolls might well be considered the original Kokeshi, as it is said they were modeled after a baby’s pacifier. They originated in the cities of Hanamaki and Morioka, and the Yumoto Onsen in Awate Prefecture. Several shapes of kina-kina continue to be made now in somewhat larger sizes. These have been called Kikuriboko, or, "Child of Wood."
Collector's note – characteristics / painting style:
They started as unpainted ‘teething’ dolls, and the wood would have a very smooth surface. These unpainted versions are called Kina-Kina, and most would have movable heads, similar to the modern “nodders”. The head would be of the snap-on type, attached loosely so that it would turn and wobble. At one point, some Nanbu artists, influenced by the popularity of Narugo and Tougatta dolls, began painting the plain Nanbu-kei with stylized chrysanthemums. These decorated dolls were then called Hanamaki dolls with bangs, side fringes, double eyelids, and cat or round noses. Though these basically plain dolls are not as decorative as others of the traditional school, their unique, flowing forms are stronger visually because of their inherent elegance.
Notable artists:
Susumago Jitsutaro
Matsuda Shouichi
Matsuda Seichi
Matsuda Tokujiro (trained by Mokichi Susumago)
Susumago Mokichi, Grand Master