Kokeshi doll by Matagoro Yashima circa 1980

Kokeshi doll - natural wood - ink - japan. Artisan: matagoro, yashima - circa 1980 - coming from a lineage of sculptors master matagoro 7th generation, is distinguished by the suggestion of the kimono by a simple line. The obi is symbolized by a square adorned with flowers. Signed (see last example photo of the signature) Small shocks of use. Certificate of authenticity of the gallery. Kokeshis, history petit: originally, were made from wood falls by the peasants in winter, and then sold to the people of the city. So they have the appearance of bowling. They were toys for girls, or offered as a token of love or friendship; 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. A double category appears in 1950: traditional kokeshi (keel appearance) and creative kokeshi, free of shapes and décor. Symbol of lost childhood, they now evolve with the worlds manga and kawaii. There are now a hundred variations.

Ref. : X1JSBVGH