Vintage Sosaku Kokeshi Entitled: Sakura by Kuribayashi, Issetsu

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Dimensions: 11-1/2”h

This rare doll is decorated with a floral theme, such as the stylized Sakura motif on the Kimono of this doll. He utilized multiple types of wood, with natural base for the face and hair painted. It illustrates stylized hand-painted clothing with an expressive cherry blossom (Sakura) motif to decorate the blue based Kimono.

As with this piece Kuribayashi enjoys long flowing traditional hairstyles, (taregami), and incorporates a topknot to further define the hair. The eyes express humility, and his faces typically have a tiny red spot for the nose. Shape and balance are important elements of this Japanese style and decoration. The piece is signed and stamped on the bottom of the doll with the date 1951.

Condition: Excellent, “as is” original condition with minimal affects from aging, and retaining a wonderful patina with no discoloration.

NOTE: Kuribayashi, Issetsu, (1924-2011), is from Yonezawa City, Kuribayashi-san is considered one of the founding fathers of the Sosaku-Creative movement. His dolls have won every major award given over the years. He began his career in 1955 and is featured in the Nuremberg Toy Museum in Germany along with fellow Sosaku artist Watanabe Masao. Many of his works were one-of-a-kind creations.