Toa Sekiguchi ‘Kaguya Hime’ Kokeshi, 1970–1980

Japanese sōsaku kokeshi by Toa Sekiguchi (関口東亜), model Kaguya Hime, dating from circa 1970–1980.

Dimensions: height 11 cm, diameter 8 cm.

The compact, rounded form is finished in dark wood, with a small face emerging from the top. Subtle reddish-brown bamboo motifs decorate the front. The restrained design and calm expression give the kokeshi a quiet, sculptural presence.

Kaguya Hime means “Princess Kaguya” and refers to the legendary moon princess from the classical Japanese tale The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter. A characterful small kokeshi that beautifully reflects Sekiguchi’s stylised design language.