This vintage creative kokeshi doll was made & signed by master Sekiguchi Sansaku. She is titled 寒椿 (Kantsubaki) which means “Winter Camellia”. The winter camellia is admired for its resilience, as it blooms beautifully despite the harshness of winter and is frequently mentioned in Japanese poetry, art, and traditional gardens.

Sekiguchi Sansaku (1925-2018) is perhaps the most renowned kokeshi master. He’s the only artisan who has ever been certified by the Japanese government as “master of creative kokeshi”. He has a museum in his birth city of Shibukawa in Gunma prefecture and it’s being managed and maintained by his daughter Izumi who is a kokeshi artist in her own right. He has won the prestigious prime minister award three times for his beautiful and unique dolls.

In very good condition with minor signs of age and use. Has very minor discoloration on top of the head.

Height: 17cm / 6.7 inches