Vintage Sosaku Kokeshi entitled: “Chigo Sakura | Cherry Blossom Child” by Watanabe, Masao

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Dimensions: 14-1/4”h

This delightful doll won the Prime Minister’s Award and was presented to the Beatles in 1965, after their appearance in Japan with Sir Joseph Lockwood, Chairman of EMI Record Distributors, England. 

Watanabe-san is famous for not only minimally turning beautiful woods, but also respected for his use of variegated high-gloss lacquer, which he used to add another dimension to the dolls. In this case, however, Watanabe-san uses a type of natural, or colored candle wax, (Rōsoku no rō), in finishing this Spring representation of the most famous and abstract Cherry Blossom. The eyes of these dolls are typically looking downward, in respect, with just a hint of bangs peeping out of the tight head covering. The doll has Watanabe-san’s inscription, as well as his impressed stamp, identifying the pieces. 

Condition: Mint condition exhibiting an aged patination and meticulous care. There are no missing elements, no scratches or imperfections related to daily use with all detailed elements intact. The object retains the original craftsmanship, meeting the standards of the collector of Japanese Sosaku Kokeshi