Masao Watanabe Vintage Kokeshi Doll (24.5cm/9.6 inches)

Creative vintage kokeshi by Watanabe Masao (1917-2007). Made in 1968.

Watanabe Masao was born in Fukushima prefecture and originally trained as a traditional kokeshi master before switching to creative kokeshi. He won the prestigious prime minster award and his dolls were also given to the Beatles in 1965. He’s one of the few artisans whose work is permanently exhibited at the Nuremberg Toy Museum in Germany.

In good condition with marks of age and use.

Height: 24.5cm / 9.6 inches