This beautiful vintage kokeshi was made and signed by master Yamanaka Sanpei (1926-2012) who won over 20 awards for his kokeshi dolls including the prestigious “Prime Minister Award” in 1979. Sanpei’s inspiration for kokeshi doll designs often come from children and this kokeshi shows a child wrapped up in a red coat in winter.
This lovely chubby doll is titled 野ぎく (also write as 野菊) which means Asteroideae/Wild chrysanthemums and you can see the delicate flower decorations around her red body. She’s probably the one who stole the cookies.
In great condition, comes with the original box.
Height: 21cm/8.6 inches