Vintage Sōsaku Kokeshi by Usaburō Okamoto, ca. 1960–1980

Dimensions: height 25 cm, diameter 7 cm.

An elegant Japanese sōsaku kokeshi designed by the renowned kokeshi artist Usaburō Okamoto (1917–2009), founder of the Usaburo Kokeshi workshop.

The doll has an elongated, gently rounded form that beautifully showcases the natural grain of the wood. Its restrained facial expression is framed by a distinctive, voluminous hairstyle carved from a separate piece of wood. The deep recess surrounding the head creates a strong sense of depth and gives the design an almost sculptural appearance.

The body is decorated with stylised flowers in red, cream and black. This understated decoration contrasts beautifully with the warm brown tones of the wood, allowing the natural grain to become an important part of the composition. The combination of woodturning, carving and hand-painted details is characteristic of creative kokeshi produced during the second half of the 20th century.

Usaburō Okamoto began producing kokeshi around 1950 and developed innovative techniques that combined traditional craftsmanship with modern methods of woodworking. His designs received numerous awards and played an important role in introducing modern Japanese kokeshi to an international audience.

This kokeshi is particularly attractive as an individual art object displayed on a cabinet, shelf or display, while also making a distinctive addition to a collection of Japanese folk art and decorative objects.

In excellent vintage condition, without visible cracks or major damage. Minor natural irregularities in the wood are inherent to the material and its handcrafted character.

A refined and characterful Japanese kokeshi combining modern design, natural materials and traditional craftsmanship.