This extraordinary Kokeshi by artist Noboru Wagatsuma captivates with its unusual greyish black colouring, which gives the hand-turned figure a powerful, almost mystical presence. The distinctive bun hairstyle and impressive size create a dignified presence that impressively combines traditional Japanese design language with contemporary aesthetics.
The dark, profound colour palette—a bold and rare choice in Kokeshi art—evokes sumi ink painting and embodies the meditative, contemplative dimension of Japanese artistic tradition. Wagatsuma-san contrasts this intense base colour with finely executed floral patterns that flow across the smooth surface of the Mizuki wood with subtle elegance, creating a fascinating contrast between light and dark.
The clean, upright form combined with masterful painting technique testifies to Wagatsuma-san's exceptional craftsmanship. The affectionate facial features and harmonious proportions give this doll a warm, inviting personality despite its dark colouring. Entirely turned and painted by hand, each piece is an unmistakable one-of-a-kind creation through natural variations in colour application and pattern execution.
Height: approx. 15 cm with topknot hairstyle (total approx. 18 cm)
Wood: Mizuki (dogwood)
Materials: dyes, pigments, sumi ink
Origin: Japan
Handmade, one of a kind
An impressive and unconventional collector's piece for connoisseurs of Japanese craftsmanship who appreciate the expressive power of dark colouring and the successful balance between traditional technique and modern interpretation.
Please note
This product is not a toy and should be kept out of the reach of children.
