KOKESHI HATSUNE BY SHIDO SHOUZAN

This is an exceptional vintage Sosaku Kokeshi by Shouzan. Shido Shouzan liked to combine different types of wood to give dimension to his pieces. This doll incorporates the use of Paulownia, Beech, and Cherry. Shido Shouzan enjoyed creating tall, slender dolls to resemble the tall, thin trees that can be seen throughout Japan. 

This kokeshi is wearing a headdress, called a ‘Tsunokakushi’, inspired by headwear worn by samurai in battle and topped with a ‘Mage’ (topknot). The traditional layering of clothing is shown through  carving techniques and the use of different woods as well as an unadorned obi.  The kokeshi's face is understated, and other than a very aged patina this doll is in good condition with no major dings or dents. This doll would have been a very dark timber finish with lighter woods used on the face and under garments and if the wood finish was in good condition a doll like this would fetch $700-$1200.

 The doll has Shouzan's signature stamp on the bottom and is 49cm tall.