Vintage Japanese Signed Wooden Kokeshi Doll Traditional Floral Motif 8.5"H

Vintage Japanese Signed Kokeshi Doll (こけし) — Traditional Wood-Turned Figure with Chrysanthemum Body Motif

Japan, Shōwa period (mid-20th century), estimated
8.5″H

A traditional wood-turned kokeshi with a rounded head set over a cylindrical body, the head painted with a swept fringe and dark side locks accented in red, and a simple, serene painted face. The base is signed in black ink read as 小沢孝雄 (Ozawa Takao).

The body carries a bold, stylized chrysanthemum-like floral burst in red against the natural wood with the kind of large, graphic body pattern associated with several of the classic dento kokeshi lineages of the Tōhoku region. Kokeshi originated as simple turned wooden dolls made in hot-spring towns, and are collected today both for their regional traditions and for individual makers' hand.

Form: Kokeshi doll (traditional wood-turned figure), rounded head over cylindrical body
Construction/Decoration: Turned wood with painted face and hair, chrysanthemum-style floral body motif in red
Mark: Signed on the base in black ink, read as 小沢孝雄 (Ozawa Takao)
Period: Shōwa period, Japan (mid-20th century)
Dimensions: 8.5″H
Weight:
Condition: Attractive aged patina to the wood with light surface soiling and minor paint wear consistent with age; no cracks or losses noted.