Vintage Traditional Narugo Ejiko Kokeshi by Akira Kon
Dimensions: 2-3/4”h x 2-7/8” dia.
Offered is an extremely rare Narugo Ejiko by master Akira Kon. It is a very simple representation of the Ejiko with a motif/stripings regularly seen at festivals. Additionally, it has the Rokoru Moya circular lifework around its collar. Bangs set wide apart are the definitive feature of the head with a red bow on the top and side hair fringes on each side of its face, along with the standard single eyelid, and a cat nose. Though these basically plain dolls are not as decorative as others of the Traditional school, they’re unique, flowing visual forms.
For further information see, Ejiko | Izume.Ko | Nemariko in our Japanese Vintage Toy section.
Condition: Very Good condition having excellent care and handling affording each doll age-old elegance. Retains the original craft/workmanship showing a wonderfully-developed patina commensurate with age and unrestored. Each piece meets all the standards of Traditional Kokeshi Ejiko collectibles and is an exceptional piece for the collectors of Narugo Family dolls.
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Japanese Traditional Kokeshi | Narugo-Kei (Family)
Prefecture: Miyaka
Origin:
These are the popular “squeaking or crying child” dolls and are made of two pieces, with the head being attached to the body via a snap-in projection, allowing it to be turned, thus making the squeak. Naru is "sound or "cry," and ko is "child." Thus, naruko is "crying child," It's no surprise, then, that the Naruko kokeshi "cries" when her head is turned. They originally came from Narugo Onsen in Miyagi Prefecture and originated sometime in the Edo period when there were approximately 125 craftsmen producing this style. The Narugo kokeshi has been labeled the most sophisticated.
Collector's note – characteristics / painting style:
Narugo dolls are one of the most well-known families of Kokeshi and are defined by their straight-shaped body, narrowing slightly at the waist with beveled shoulders. Bangs set wide apart are the definitive feature of the head with side fringes, a single eyelid, and a cat nose. They also are very balanced, and typically have paintings of chrysanthemum, (Kiku), Iris (Ayame), or peony (Botan). Though these basically plain dolls are not as decorative as others of the Traditional school, their unique, flowing forms are stronger visually because of their inherent elegance.
Notable artists:
Oonuma, Jun, b. 1924
Oonuma Sinbei, Master
Izu Mamoru, b.1925
Izu Sadao, Master
Kakizawa Koretaka, b. 1930
Takahashi Morio, Master