Vintage Kokeshi Doll by Usaburo – From A Northern Region (16cm/6.3 inches)

This beautiful vintage creative kokeshi doll was made by Usaburo and she’s titled 北国から (Kitaguni kara) which means “From A Northern Region”. It hints at the northern regions of Japan where the temperature gets very low and snowfall covers them for the winter months. Her design clearly says “winter” with her warm scarf wrapped around her head, several layers of clothing and winter boots.

Okamoto Usaburo is the founder of the famous Usaburo kokeshi. Born in Gunma prefecture in 1917 and started making kokeshi dolls in 1950. He is considered to be a pioneer in the kokeshi world thanks to his original machines that he developed for kokeshi making and the way he revolutionized the carving and burning process by introducing new techniques.

He also explored using types of trees that haven’t been traditionally used before for kokeshi making, such as chestnut and keyaki (thanks to their wonderful ugrain). After a considerable effort he succeed in creating marvelous dolls out of them as well as flower vases. He won many prizes for his works, including the prize of the Minister of International Trade and Industry.

In very good condition with minor signs of age and use.

Height: 16cm / 6.3 inches