Japanese Traditional Kokeshi | Tougatta-Kei

Tougatta kokeshi are the oldest style in the Traditional school, originating in Tougatta Onsen in Miyagi Prefecture and later produced in Aone Onsen, Sendai, and Izumi. Known for their slender, column-like bodies and larger squeeze-in heads, they often feature split bangs, crescent eyes, and cat-style noses.

Their kimonos are decorated with stylised floral designs such as chrysanthemums, plums, and irises—plum motifs being closely associated with Aone Onsen. Some Tougatta dolls display bold red-and-green banding created using the lathe-painted Rokoru Moyo technique.

Collectors especially prize the Mokuma style, where the kimono is painted with a detailed wood-grain pattern. Very rare Yamiyo dolls include carved loose rings around the waist, a meticulous technique also seen occasionally in Yajirō and Tsuchiyu styles.

This Tougatta kokeshi is by Igari Katsuhik. it is18cm tall in excellent condition and signed by the artist on the bottom.