Great Kokeshi Doll, "LaTimide" by Okamoto Usaburo circa 1960-70 - Japan

Kokeshi doll with eyes down, "the timid" by master usaburo okamoto 1917-2009. Top 41 diameter 11.5 - 60s - large unusual size. Pyrograved and painted décor. Okamoto, active 1940-80. He invented new styles by introducing techniques using spinning machines, and a painting combined with hollow engraving, polishing and stencil drawing. He liked the grain of keyaki and chestnut wood, until then little used, widespread in his native region. a about kokeshis: they were toys for girls, or offered as a token of love or friendship; symbolized the desire to have a healthy child. They would have a talisman function, are modesty, softness. They also have a buddhist origin. Their hairstyles evoking buddha's bun. A notice on the artist as well as on the history and function of the kokeshis will be attached.