Sōsaku Kokeshi “Semishigure” by Sato Suigai, 1970s

Elegant vintage Japanese sōsaku kokeshi by Sato Suigai, titled Semishigure and dating from the 1970s.

Dimensions: height 44 cm, diameter 6 cm.

This slender kokeshi has a refined and poetic presence, with a gently tilted head, closed eyes and a traditional hairstyle with a small bun. The calm facial expression and delicate eyelashes give the doll a soft, expressive character.

The body is designed as a stylised kimono with a deep blue to black base. Across the surface runs a natural wood-coloured summer grass motif, applied in a fine and rhythmic manner along the length of the figure. The narrow, uncoloured wooden obi creates a beautifully understated contrast with the darker body.

Sato Suigai was a respected maker of creative kokeshi, known for elegant forms, quiet expressions and refined nature-inspired decoration. This piece beautifully reflects that balance of simplicity, movement and decorative strength.

The kokeshi is in good vintage condition, with normal light signs of age and use consistent with its age, material and handmade character.