Watanabe Masao Vintage Kokeshi Doll – Cherry Blossom Child (23cm/9 inches)

This doll was made & signed by Watanabe Masao (1917-2007). Her title is 稚児桜 (Chigozakura) which means “Cherry Blossom Child”. This is the same design that was given to The Beatles when they visited Japan in 1965, but in a smaller size. 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 back in 1971. He’s one of the few artisans whose work is permanently exhibited at the Nuremberg Toy Museum in Germany.

In great condition with a minor mark on the back of the hair. Comes in the original box.

Height: 23cm / 9 inches
Width: 8.5cm / 3.3 inches
Weight: 498g / 1lb