Turned from mizuki wood, painted with dyes, pigments, and sumi ink. Wagatsuma-san's Irodori series uses colour as its primary means of expression — here a deep orange that runs from head to base, broken by areas of uncoloured wood.
The body carries a loosely placed leaf motif in orange and gold; the curved head section is decorated with concentric lines. The face is drawn with a few assured brushstrokes — eyes, brows, a small mouth. Nothing is overstated.
The form follows the creative kokeshi tradition: clearly structured, with a distinctive head that reads as a gathered updo. Height approx. 9 cm (body), approx. 13 cm overall.
One of a Kind. Natural variation in the paint application and grain is part of the piece.
Height: approx. 9 cm with topknot hairstyle (total approx. 13 cm)
Noboru Wagatsuma combines the traditional language of Togatta Kokeshi with modern motifs, unusual silhouettes and expressive colour. His former career as a singer-songwriter continues to resonate through his work, giving many pieces a distinctive and often surprising character.
