​Shōfuku Kokeshi Set by Sato Koson, 1980s, Japan

A beautiful set of two Japanese Shōfuku Kokeshi by artist Sato Koson, featuring expressive, exuberantly laughing faces and an elegant, minimalist design.

Dimensions: H 15.5 cm (display) / Wooden base: W 21 × D 12 cm.

The figures are crafted from wood, with warm natural tones, black-painted hair and deeply carved mouths outlined in red.

Shōfuku means ‘welcoming good fortune’. The figures’ broad smiles symbolise joy and prosperity, a sentiment also reflected in the accompanying Japanese texts.

The rounded heads are removable and can be positioned at different angles, allowing the figures’ expressions and overall appearance to change.

Both kokeshi are signed on the underside. One of the figures also bears a handwritten date from 1986.

The set is complete with its wooden display base, original name plaque featuring Japanese calligraphy, and informative leaflets about the artist and her work. The paper documents show signs of age and some damage.

A particularly charming example of Japanese creative kokeshi art, bringing together humour, symbolism and traditional wood craftsmanship. A playful yet refined decorative accent for a contemporary interior.