Vintage Japanese Traditional Tougatta Kokeshi of Otafuku, (Okame) by Sato, Oshizo (1889-)
Dimensions: 14-1/2” h
This Tougatta doll is extremely RARE and is by a Tougatta carver named Sato Oshizo, who studied with Masters Sato, Bunroku, with the oldest Kokeshi family of the Traditional school. This is an extremely unusual Kokeshi representing Otafuku, also known as Okame, who is considered the “Joy of Japan”. In shrines, temples, and homes throughout Japan, you are likely to encounter the plump, smiling image of Otakfku, (Okame). She’s always there, waiting, with a smile and warmth in her heart. She is considered a mystic figure having roots in Japan’s distant past. Otafuku and Okame represent different names for the same female figure. Okame is one of the seven lucky Gods of Japan.
This particular Tougatta doll has black hair covering the top of her head, with bangs pulled aside at the forehead, two Urna marks on the forehead, and two side fringes framing her face. She has twinkling, very expressive thin narrow eyes, a cat-type nose, and a happy smile. Under her red cheeks and chin is one large chrysanthemum, (Kiku), in a very stylized design. There is a circular-style painting known as Rokoru Moyo, which is done as the doll is turned on the lathe on the upper portion of her body, with three smaller chrysanthemums, and tall green grasses on the lower portion with again, Rokoru Mayo colored horizontal rings beneath. The doll is signed in script on the back of the doll by the artist.
To read more about this Family of Kokeshi makers go to: https://mingeiarts.com/collections/tougatta-kei-family
Condition: Excellent, meaning that the piece retains its original craft/workmanship showing a wonderful, developed patina commensurate with age which suggests a degree of wear that corresponds to its vintage. The doll is void of damage, cracks, breakage, or repairs. This doll meets all the standards of the collectible Traditional Tougatta-Kei Kokeshi.
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