Japanese traditional crafts　Kokeshi Doll　Craftsman　Atsuo Tanaka (1938-2003)　A13


「Kokeshi size」
Height 24.5cm,(10.63inch)
head width 7cm(2.76nch)
bottom width 4.5cm, (1.77inch)
*Please note that there may be slight errors in the measurements.

Japanese Kokeshi Dolls

Japanese kokeshi dolls are traditional wooden figurines beloved for their beauty, craftsmanship, and cultural significance. Kokeshi dolls are well-known as a part of Japan's traditional crafts and are particularly popular as souvenirs and gifts.

Key Features:

Wooden Figurines: Kokeshi dolls are crafted from wood, typically using materials like maple or cherry. These woods are well-suited for carving and painting, giving each kokeshi its distinctive appearance.

Handcrafted Artistry: Kokeshi dolls are meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans. Carving and painting require a high level of expertise, resulting in unique features and expressions for each doll.

Cultural Significance: Kokeshi dolls hold a special place in Japanese culture and are associated with traditional festivals and events. In particular, "Tohoku kokeshi" from the Tohoku region's Fukushima Prefecture are closely tied to regional identity.

Collector's Items: Kokeshi dolls are highly regarded as works of art and are collected by enthusiasts. Antique and rare kokeshi dolls can appreciate in value over time.

Japanese kokeshi dolls are a beautiful fusion of wood's warmth and artisanal skill, serving as symbols of Japan's tradition and artistry. Their captivating appearance and cultural background continue to enchant people worldwide.



Craftsman　
Atsuo Tanaka (1938-2003)
System: Zao Takayu system

Master: Genkichi Saito


〔person〕
Born on March 6, 1939, as the fifth son of Sadao Tanaka, a farmer in Utsunagi, Yonezawa City.

After graduating from junior high school in March 1950, he worked at a clothing brokerage store in Yonezawa and also worked for Shinkichi Takeda for about five months.

He also worked for a while at Naoshi Okazaki's factory in Onogawa, but details are not known. In November 1955, he became an apprentice to Genkichi Saito of Zao Takayu and began formal training in woodworking.

Started making kokeshi dolls in 1955. The business opened in April 1960, and opened independently in November 1968.

Even after the master Genkichi's death in December 1969, he remained at Midoriya and continued making kokeshi dolls. From 1965, he also started making the Saito Matsuji type that Genkichi had made. The first publication is <Kokeshi Guide>.

In April 1970, he became independent and opened Tanaka Kokeshi shop in Kawahara, Zao Onsen.

He continued to make kokeshi dolls at Zao Onsen for a long time, but passed away on December 11, 2003, at the age of 66.


Keiji Tanaka, who worked as a craftsman under Ikuo Okazaki in Zao and became independent in Yonezawa, is his nephew.