TRADITIONAL EJIKO VINTAGE KOKESHI

The Ejiko, which originated in the Tsuruoka region of Yamagata Prefecture in the early 1910s, began to be specifically produced as a toy in the 1920s. Known for its rich diversity in subject matter, form, and decoration, Ejiko toys reflect a unique local tradition that has continued to evolve over time.

This Ejiko kokeshi is known as a Nemariko doll which follow the same basic Ejiko style—short, low, and round—and are most often referred to simply as Ejiko dolls. Unlike the Izumiko doll, from which the Nemariko style is derived, these dolls do not hold anything and are not containers for miniature toys.

All Nemariko dolls share the same characteristic short and rotund form. The facial features are typically painted to resemble a child, with decorative bangs, and follow the same stylistic detailing found in regular-shaped Kokeshi dolls.

Their bodies are often painted with stripes or adorned with floral motifs, particularly regional flowers such as chrysanthemums. Many also feature symbols and patterns representing the individual Traditional Families associated with the doll-making craft.

This Nemariko kokeshi has artist's signature on the bottom- Umeki Shuichi and is a mere 4cm tall. Very collectable for those that collect traditional kokeshi.