This vintage Creative Kokeshi (Sōsaku Kokeshi) doll crafted by Yajima Suihou (b. 1915)
Product details
This vintage Creative Kokeshi (Sōsaku Kokeshi) doll crafted by Yajima Suihou (b. 1915) demonstrates the refined minimalism and serene expression characteristic of his work.
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Head & Expression: Features a perfectly round head topped with a distinct, goblet-like topknot hairpiece (mage) turned on a lathe. The face displays fine line-carved fringe detailing (bangs), delicate closed eyes painted with a single sweep of black ink, and tiny red lips, giving the doll a peaceful, meditative disposition.
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Body & Decoration: The slender cylindrical body is painted in a warm, muted red/coral base with fluid black brushstrokes and etched floral motifs near the lower hem—a signature motif of Suihou’s nature-inspired compositions.
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Patina & Condition: Standing at 26 cm, the piece exhibits a rich, aged patina with natural darkening of the wood grain on the head and gentle lacquer oxidation on the torso, highlighting its vintage age and mid-century modern aesthetic.
About the Artist
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Artist: Yajima Suihou (矢島翠峰, born 1915)
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Background: Formerly an art teacher, Suihou began creating creative kokeshi in the 1950s and gained notable acclaim within the post-war Japanese craft movement, winning the prestigious Prime Minister's Award in 1958.
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Style: Known for combining balanced turned-wood silhouettes with expressive brushwork, unique hairstyles, and understated floral accents.
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