Vintage Japanese Sasebo Spinning Whirling Circus Clown Koma | Kijigangu Sakadachi Top by Katakura Family

Dimensions: 4-0”h x 2-1/4”dia 

This Koma called a Sasebo Spinning Top was specifically made for use in the “snow” and was popular in the Edo period traditionally had multiple colors as with this piece that has blue yellow and red stripes with a Fusha spinner on the top. They vary in color, shape, and size, depending on the region they come from, and all have unique characteristics. Red represents health, black, (power); yellow, (wealth); green, (harvest); and purple, (nobility). This motion is produced by holding the axis firmly while pulling a string. An internal weight rotates, producing an overall circular motion. The top is one of the oldest recognizable toys found on archaeological sites.

See our e-book entitled: A Collector’s Guide: Traditional and Creative Kokeshi and Toys: https://mingeiarts.com/collections/our-books/products/a-collectors-guide-traditional-and-creative-kokeshi-and-toys

Condition: Excellent meaning that the piece retains its original craft/workmanship and functions as intended, showing a wonderful-developed patina and is void of damage, cracks, breakage, or repairs and meets all the standards of the collectible Vintage Traditional Kokeshi Toys.