

Vintage Sosaku Kokeshi
Vintage Japanese Sosaku Kokeshi by Katase, Kaihei
Katase, Kahei
Age:1965
Descriptive qualities& condition:
Dimensions: 8-1/2”h
The wonderful Kokeshi entitled: “Oboroya | Clouded Moon” is wonderfully detailed, are exquisitely formed, based on both traditional and creative styling. The hair, in particular, takes on a traditional form and is delicately detailed in the carving technique emphasizing flowing hair. The motif that is illustrated throughout the front of the Kimono is executed in a silver lacquer, and indicates the artist’s fascination with this aesthetic. The dolls have an incised artist stamp on the back bottom portion of the doll. Katase-san won major awards at the Gunma Kokeshi Competition on multiple occasions in the 1960s. This doll was published in an exhibition catalogue entitled: Kokeshi Dolls by JETRO, (the Japan External Trade Organization).
Condition: Very good, original condition, with no fading or loss of color, and consistent with age. A small blemish on the left surface of the doll and shown in the image that does not distract from it appearance or value. This is a VERY rare doll and the piece meets all the standards of Kokeshi collectible Folk Art.
Artisan | Woodworker: Katase, Kahei | 1922-2015
Origin:
Born in the town of Hakone, in a region known for its beautiful wooden marquetry crafts, Katase-san, the son of a Kijishi, (woodworker), won the first Prime Minister’s Award in 1954 at the ‘All Nippon Kokeshi Competition’. Along with many of his fellow Sosaku artists, Katase-san was a soldier, and perhaps turned to creative Kokeshi-making to assuage the rigors of a long-fought war.
Katase focuses on what is known as “one-off” dolls turned from one piece of wood, and detailed throughout the figural form. They primarily illustrate the “new” styles of Japan of the 18th century when the Dutch East Indies Trading Company influenced Japanese everyday life and customs. Buddhist figures, which are intricately carved, are another style by this artist.
Collector's note – descriptive qualities, standard characteristics & ornamentation styles:
In many dolls he utilizes a hand painted striping technique called Rokuro Moyo, and in several instances he incorporates seasonal flowers into the kimono representation. The hair and clothing of his pieces are subtly textured with a lacquered finish.
Artist's signature:
