Rare Vintage Kokeshi by Harumasa Tanaka, 1960s

This rare vintage kokeshi doll was created by the renowned artist Harumasa Tanaka (田中治正), celebrated for his playful and expressive designs in the world of sōsaku kokeshi (creative kokeshi).

Dimensions: height 16 cm, diameter 10 cm.

The doll features a charming and unique design with a rotating head that reveals two distinct faces: one side with wide, open eyes and a cheerful expression, the other with closed eyes and a peaceful, sleeping face.

Its form is simple yet elegant, rendered in soft natural wood tones with a carved wooden bow as a decorative accent. The body gently embraces the head in a way that adds a tender and endearing quality to the piece.

This kokeshi is in good vintage condition and bears the artist’s signature on the underside, confirming its authenticity.

A hard-to-find and highly expressive kokeshi — perfect for collectors or as a decorative piece full of character.

Harumasa Tanaka was active in the latter half of the 20th century and is praised for blending traditional forms with a modern, whimsical touch. His works are rare and highly sought after by collectors of Japanese kokeshi.