Vintage Sōsaku Kokeshi “Ikat Beauty” by Miyajima Muhitsu, 1970s

This vintage Japanese sōsaku kokeshi is a design by Miyajima Muhitsu and is titled “Ikat Beauty”. The doll has a sober cylindrical body with a rounded cap-like top, inspired by a traditional winter hat or hairstyle. The fine grooves around the upper body refer to a woven snow coat, or mino, and give the piece a subtle texture.

Dimensions: height 20 cm, diameter 6 cm.

The decoration consists of turquoise floral and ikat-like motifs on warm dark wood, probably enju, with a beautifully visible grain. The face is rendered in a highly minimal way, with fine eye lines and a small red detail. The maker’s signature is present on the underside.

Miyajima Muhitsu was an influential artist within the sōsaku kokeshi movement and won the prestigious Prime Minister’s Award in 1973. This kokeshi is in very good condition and makes a refined collector’s piece or a subtle Japanese accent in a contemporary interior.