Sosaku Kokeshi entitled: “Shinto shukujo | Shinto Lady” by Yajima, Shuiho
© 2019 — Vermillion Publishing
Dimensions: 11-0” h
The majority of Yajima-san’s figures are tall, tapered and elongated elegant bodies simply stained to delineate the body elements which gives the desired dimension and texture. The head of this doll assumes a tilted position reminding us of the gentle spirit of women throughout the country, as well as giving the doll personality. As with this piece it is not unusual to see Yajima combine woods to give excitement to a doll. Singed on the bottom.
Vintage Condition: “as is” with some scattered light wear or stain that does not affect the design, and retains the original craft/workmanship. Any discoloration, chipping/cracking, surface wear or structural damage noted.
Artisan | Woodworker: Yajima, Shuiho | 1915-
Origin:
Yajima-san was an art teacher, and began creating Sosaku Kokeshi in the 1950s, winning numerous awards including the Prime Minister’s Award in 1958.
As collectors we felt it was most important to represent all Sosaku Kokeshi artists, whether or not the artist has a written account of his or her 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 majority of Yajima-san’s figures are tall, tapered and elongated elegant bodies simply painted and decorated with carved motifs, typically plum blossoms. This type of treatment gives the desired dimension and texture. The obi beautifully balances his dolls and is typically understated. His doll heads on elongated necks can take on different positions, reminding us of the gentle spirit of women throughout the country, as well as giving the doll personality. It is not unusual to see Yajima combine woods to give excitement to a doll.
Artist's Signature:
