Vintage Japanese Sosaku Kokeshi entitled: “Somei Yoshino” | Cherry Blossom by Takahashi, Hajime (1918-2002)

Sale price$185.00

Dimensions: 14-0”h

This beautiful executed lathe-turned doll is from one piece of Elm, (Keyaki). The artist has used a branch of Plum, (Ume), with just one flowering branch to ornament this elegant doll and associated with the start of spring, because cherry blossoms are some of the first blossoms to open during the year. In this case, the Cherry blossoms and buds represented are a symbol of both life, death, and feminine beauty. This doll uses an enduring metaphor for the ephemeral nature of life, bringing a sense of vitality and vibrancy. At the same time, their short lifespan is a reminder that life is fleeting, and the Japanese celebrate the custom of admiring sakura in a yearly cultural tradition called “hanami”. There are many sitings about Sakura in Japanese folklore and Buddhist and Shinto legends and mythology.  

The facial details are understated while she exhibits elegance with peaceful eyes, which is a trademark for Hajime-san, a suggested mouth, with black bangs and side hair fringes framing her face. A three-dimensional wide Obi is painted in metallic bronze or gold, so as not to detract from the simple blossom motif. The bottom of the doll bears the artist’s signature, red stamp, and identification. 

The piece was published in the 2022 publication of Sosaku Kokeshi: Celebrating the Major Artists of the Creative Movement. For additional information on the artist/family go to: https://mingeiarts.com/collections/artisan-woodworker-takahashi-hashime-1918-2002

Condition: Excellent outstandingly excellent, impressive, and beautiful. There are no chips, cracks, breaks, missing pieces, or restoration, and it retains its original details and finishes. The piece meets all the standards of the collectible Sosaku Kokeshi.