YAJIROU TRADITIONAL KOKESHI DOLL

This Tougatta kokeshi doll captures the essence and deeper spiritual symbolism of these traditional kokeshi. 

The use of Janome (literally "snake’s eye") — the circles on the head — is a hallmark of many traditional kokeshi dolls, especially from the Tougatta lineage. It’s fascinating how such a simple motif can carry such visual power and cultural weight. The circular design can be interpreted as a symbol of enlightenment or the cyclical nature of existence in Buddhist philosophy — always returning, always flowing.

When paired with expressive facial features and intricate body graphics, it becomes more than just a doll; it becomes a meditative object, almost like a silent guardian or a vessel of calm.

The Tsuchiyu style, with its unique tare-bana nose lends an introspective, almost meditative expression to the face. It mirrors that peaceful stillness often associated with Buddhist representations — a kind of quiet watchfulness. The long side hair fringes give it a softness and flow, with the delicate red blossoms with black accents

The negative area on the lower portion of the body, below the redcircular detail, adds to that sense of transcendence — a quiet emptiness that breathes, not unlike the concept of mu in Zen philosophy. And to have it made from Hanamizuki (Dogwood), a wood known for its strength and fineness, makes it both durable and elegant — perfect for holding such intricate detail and subtle form.

The signature by Aguro Atsushi on the base adds not only provenance but also a personal connection to the maker.

This doll is in good condition, 31cm tall, no dents or fractures in the wood. There is fading on the circular detail on the body there would have been other colour bands which are very faded and a small amount of smudging to the red circles.