Vintage Kokeshi by Isamu Yamakawa

Vintage Kokeshi by Isamu Yamakawa
This beautiful Kokeshi by artisan Isamu Yamakawa stands 25cm tall and remains in excellent condition, complete with the artist’s hanko stamp on the base.

Believed to have been born in 1928, Yamakawa began producing works in the early 1960s. While little is known about his personal life, his artistry speaks volumes. His Kokeshi are celebrated for their charming, childlike features that capture a sense of innocence and quiet joy.

Crafted primarily from natural woods—often with a preference for zelkova—Yamakawa’s dolls showcase the grain and texture of the material, enhancing the warmth and simplicity of each design. Seasonal themes are a hallmark of his work, with delicate references to spring blossoms, summer breezes, autumn leaves, and the stillness of winter subtly expressed in form and color. Each doll carries with it a gentle evocation of time and place, making Yamakawa’s work both timeless and deeply expressive.