Vintage Japanese Traditional Tsugaru Kokeshi by Mamiya, Masao (1921-)

Dimensions: 9-3/4” h

This Kokeshi is one of the RAREST turned and formed Kokeshi from the Tsugaru-kei family of Traditional doll makers. Mamiya-san studied under Master Mamiya, Meitaro in the mid-20’s. The doll represents a very sophisticated woman from a high-ranking family which, is defined in the total graphics of the doll.

The artist utilized the design of a semi-solid black concentric circle on the top of the head called Janome, and a small patch of bangs above her eyebrows. The basic Tsuchiyu face shows one eyelid with an open eye that looks downward. In many respects, she has a ’stern’ expression, as shown in her eyes and red mouth.  She has a ‘cat’ shaped round nose, and long side hair fringes which incorporate red hair ornaments framing the face. This Tsuchiyu utilizes Rokoru moyo style varying widths of horizontal line-work in black below the neck, in the center representing an Obi, and on the base. Interspersed on the body are star Jasmine, (Jasumin) on the front and two interesting tiny, raised dowels of a different type of wood in the middle of the doll. They appear to represent the flowers ‘pistils’, and are only there for a tactile experience. The doll is unusually turned, giving an additional three-dimensional effect at the neck. She is made from one piece of Dogwood wood, (Hanamizuki). We have never seen a Kokeshi with this imaging and quality of work in all the years of our collection. The doll has the acknowledgment on the base in beautiful script and is titled and signed by the artist. 

To read more about this Family of Kokeshi makers go to: https://mingeiarts.com/collections/tsuchiyu-kei-family.

Condition: Outstanding, excellent, impressive, and beautiful. ARARE piece for the collector of traditional Kokeshi to complete one’s collection. No chips, cracks, breaks, missing pieces, or restoration, and retains its original details and finish with an exceptional ‘hand’ (touch), including the three-dimensional form, artwork, color, and composition. The piece meets all the standards of the vintage collectible Traditional Tsuchiyu Kokeshi.