Vintage Japanese Traditional Tsugaru Kokeshi by Sato, Zenji (1925- 1985)

Dimensions: 10-0” h

Tsugaru kokeshi, which originated in Aomori Prefecture, in the region of the same name, are sometimes also known as Nuruyu dolls, because they made their appearance at Nuruyu Onsen, in the city of Kuroishi.

This black and natural wood Kokeshi is beautifully lathe-turned and rare because it is only one color, and resembles the face of Buddha as well as having a flower that had special meaning for the Samurai. Unlike craftsmen of the other Dento strains, Tsugaru artists were creating dolls for collectors, rather than staying within the boundaries of the original, typical Kokeshi, which were made as toys. This doll Nuruyu is one of the youngest of this style. With her wasp-like, concave/convex figure, she is the most commonly seen type of this family. This form of doll typically has an egg-like head, as opposed to the standard round head with a ‘chignon’, (top knot). With circular lines on the top, and an ‘Okappa’ style of hair that is trimmed around the neck, she is minimally ornamented. The doll has what is called a Maru-Bana, (round nose). She has a round chest, thick waist, and cone-shaped lower body, on which there is a Camellia, which for the Samurai was a symbol of steadfastness and bravery. It is used to define the front of the Kimono. Framing the floral image are Rokoru moyo style varying widths horizontal line-work in black above and below the image.   

Of all the features illustrated on this doll, the most notable and RARELY seen are hand-painted ‘feet’ on the bottom, with the artist’s script signature. To read more about this Family of Kokeshi makers go to: https://mingeiarts.com/collections/tsuchiyu-kei-family.

Condition: Outstanding excellent, impressive, and beautiful. A RARE piece for the collector of traditional Kokeshi to complete one’s collection. There are 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.