This massive 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.
Her body features natural dark wood tone and horizontal lines in shades of blue, green and yellow. Her hair is beautifully carved and her slightly open mouth and big eyes give her an image of a child who was just caught stealing cookies from the cookie jar.
In good condition with signs of age and use.
Height: 29.5cm/11.6 inches