Vintage Traditional Miniature Narugo Kokeshi by Kunio Sugai

Dimensions: 3-1/2”h

Offered is a miniature Narugo Kokeshi by Kunio Sugai. This style of Kokeshi originally came from Narugo Onsen in Miyagi Prefecture and originated sometime in the Edo period when there were approximately 125 craftsmen producing this style. It is a very simple representation of the Narugo with a straight-shaped body, narrowing slightly at the waist with beveled shoulders. A definitive feature of the head with a red bow on the top and wide side hair fringes on each side of its face, along with the standard single eyelid, and a cat nose. The body has hand paintings of stacked chrysanthemums in red and black leaves. Though these basically plain dolls, unique flowing forms are stronger visually because of their inherent elegance. The piece is signed in script on the bottom.

For further information see Japanese Traditional Kokeshi | Narugo-Kei (Family) our Browse and Learn section.

Condition: Excellent and beautiful and extremely rare examples. Excellent care and handling affording each doll age-old elegance. Retains the original craft/workmanship showing a wonderfully-developed patina commensurate with age and unrestored. Each piece meets all the standards of Traditional Kokeshi collectibles and is an exceptional piece for the collectors of Narugo Family dolls.