Vintage Sōsaku Kokeshi with Maple Leaves by Masami Katō, ca. 1960–1980

Dimensions: height 33 cm.

An elegant Japanese sōsaku kokeshi by Masami Katō, crafted from warm-toned wood and decorated with a refined motif of Japanese maple leaves.

The kokeshi has a tall, gently rounded body and a strikingly large head with a restrained and serene expression. Its closed eyes, small mouth and fine vertical hairstyle lines give the doll a calm, almost meditative presence.

Hand-painted maple leaves in warm shades of ochre, orange and green extend across the body. The leaves are outlined with delicate dark lines and contrast beautifully with the deep brown tone and natural grain of the wood. Its subtle sheen and time-developed patina further enhance the warmth of the object.

Masami Katō was born in Naruko, Miyagi Prefecture, a region with an important tradition of kokeshi production. She was married to kokeshi artist Shinichi Katō and received several awards for her work, including the Japanese Prime Minister’s Prize.

With its generous height and balanced silhouette, this kokeshi makes a beautiful individual art object on a cabinet, shelf or display. It is equally attractive as part of a collection of Japanese folk art, sōsaku kokeshi or mid-century design.

The underside bears the artist’s signature.

In attractive vintage condition, with a warm patina, light signs of use and natural variations in the wood consistent with its age and handcrafted production.

A refined Japanese kokeshi in which natural wood grain, understated expression and colourful autumn leaves come together harmoniously.