Kokeshi doll by Mrs. Sato Kozon vintage Japan 1960-70

Cherry wood doll - signed by the artist - hand-painted decoration by mrs. Sato koson. Sachiko sato was born in 1935 in date, fukushima prefecture. Often called "koson sato". She is one of the few female kokeshi designers recognized as an accomplished artist. She studied sewing, but was soon fascinated by kokeshi. In 1955 (the year she got married), she began making kokeshi as an autodidact, winning competitions several times. She had her own workshop called "kamura craft" (in fukushima). Her dolls are easily recognizable – soft faces, elegant brushstrokes for the hair. She loved large doll formats, setting herself apart from other female craftsmen. In this case we have a decoration of chrysanthemums: formerly used as the imperial seal of japan, the chrysanthemum flower was called "kikumon". ----- about kokeshis kokeshi appear in the years 1820-40 (end of the edo period). Originally, they were made from scraps of wood by artisans and peasants and sold to the people of the city. The oldest have a keel shape and may have a movable head with red in dominant color. They are originally made of wood (cherry, pear, maple). They were toys for girls, or offered as a token of love or friendship; or symbolized the desire to have a healthy child. The doll comes from a shinto communion with nature (forest / wood / landscape). Shinto places links between landscapes and feminine forms. They are, modesty, discretion, femininity, feminine ideal. Their bun is an evocation of buddha. A certificate, a notice on the artist, as well as a detailed explanation on the art of kokeshis will be given to the purchaser. Condition: this vintage object has small wear, shocks of use.

Ref. : TSVW4J7T