Kokeshi Dolls

 

The History of Kokeshi Doll

Kokeshi dolls originate from the Tohoku region of Northern Japan, an area well-known for its onsen (hot spring) resorts. These handmade wooden dolls are thought to date back to the early 19th century when kijiya (woodworkers), accustomed to making bowls and trays, began using their woodworking skills and lathes to make simple dolls to sell as toys and souvenirs to the onsen visitors. 

Traditional Kokeshi Doll

Traditional Kokeshi Dolls were created with very simple designs. The bodies and head cylindrical and the dolls did not have limbs. Traditional Kokeshi dolls featured simple faces and basic colors such as red or black. The patterns painted on their kimonos are also simple.

  

Creative Kokeshi Dolls

Creative kokeshi, relatively new having only developed as an art form since the 2nd World War. Creative Kokeshi represents a departure in style from the more traditional Kokeshi. They are more contemporary in their design with perhaps a more shapely body, added features such as hair, as well as colourful exquisitely patterned kimono. Creative kokeshi are 'created' by artists, Creative Kokeshi dolls are not crafted using the historic painting techniques or colors that are characteristic of traditional Kokeshi. The creative style of dolls feature bright colors, modern designs, and are not restricted in shape or style the shape are all unique. the artist have they own style and feature in it. The majority of creative kokeshi are made in Gunma prefecture.

When I Started to fall in love with Creative Kokeshi Dolls

Kokeshi dolls have been popular in Japan for generations. The first time I began to love Creative Kokeshi dolls, when I found the doll around the beginning of 2008 and immediately it's attracted my heart and never stop to collects kokeshi dolls. Here on this blog I put my entire collection of kokeshi dolls and I open to all my friends if they are willing to join participate to give an advice, suggest or help me to find a cute kokeshi dolls. Happy Kokeshi hunting!  Be Happy, Be Love and Be Unique...Sayonaraaa