Large vintage kokeshi japanese Heavy by Shoji Sakurai K053

Description: Large vintage kokeshi japanese Heavy by Shoji Sakurai K053 About This ItemsKokeshi hand made by Shoji Sakurai 14.17 inch / 36cm Tall　 4.8lbs / 2.2kg weight Shoji Sakurai (1927–2011) Style: Naruko Style Mentors: Mannojō Sakurai / Iwakura Ōnuma Disciples: Akihiro Sakurai / Isamu Igarashi / Yasuo Yusa / Katsunori Yoshida / Kōichi Ōnuma [Biography] Shoji Sakurai was born on January 1, 1927, in Naruko, as the eldest son of Kiji artisan Mannojō Sakurai and his wife Kō. His younger brother was Jitsurō Sakurai. During his school years before World War II, he began learning kokeshi painting from his mother, Kō, around the age of 14 or 15. Shoji's existence was already introduced by [Hō]. After graduating from Naruko Higher Elementary School in March 1945, he studied woodworking under his uncle Iwakura Ōnuma in Nakayamadaira for two years. After returning home, he began making kokeshi dolls and other items using a foot-operated lathe. His father, Mannojō, who specialized in horizontal woodturning at Umanomae at the time, would occasionally return home to teach Shoji how to turn and paint kokeshi dolls. Shoji also learned turning techniques from his uncle, Jingorō Ōnuma. Around 1950, he opened the souvenir shop "Sakurai" and installed a lathe in a corner of the shop. In 1954, his work was featured in photographs in [Kokeshi, People, and Scenery]. About four or five years after he began turning kokeshi dolls, Shoji started making Iwakura Ōnuma-style kokeshi in earnest, driven by his own will. He began creating kokeshi dolls in the style of Eikichi Shōji, who learned woodworking from Ryūtarō Ōnuma alongside Iwakura, around 1960, at the recommendation of Keizō Dobashi. Later, he also made styles from his father Mannojō, his mother Kō, and his uncle Jinzaburō. During the post-war kokeshi boom from the 1950s to the 1960s, Shoji was known as one of the "Five Young Talents of Naruko" along with Saiji Okazaki, Fukuju Yusa, Hideo Ōnuma, and Shōgo Takahashi, and was active as a central figure of the new generation. He was selected to play the role of Prince Koretaka when a parade attraction was held at the Kokeshi Festival. His disciples include Isamu Igarashi, Yasuo Yusa, Kōichi Ōnuma, and Katsunori Yoshida. Additionally, his eldest son, Akihiro, began his woodworking training in 1972. Even in his later years, Shoji actively participated in the "National Kokeshi Festival" held annually in Naruko, continued to enter his works in the festival competition, and demonstrated the use of the foot-operated lathe at the festival up until half a year before his death. His contributions to establishing and supporting the foundation of post-war Naruko were significant. He passed away on March 27, 2011, shortly after the Great East Japan Earthquake, at the age of 85. [Works] In his early years, Shoji faithfully reproduced the styles of Mannojō and Kō. His painting techniques were skillful from the beginning of his career.ConditionVintage Used About Kokeshi Kokeshi are traditional Japanese wooden dolls, characterized by their simple yet elegant design. They originated in the Tohoku region of Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868). These dolls are made from wood and typically feature a simple cylindrical body with a rounded head. Here are some key aspects of Kokeshi dolls:Types of KokeshiTraditional Kokeshi (Dento Kokeshi)These are the original forms of Kokeshi, handcrafted and typically passed down through generations of artisans.They are classified into several regional styles, each with its own unique features and patterns, such as Naruko, Tsuchiyu, Yajiro, and others.The designs often include hand-painted floral or geometric patterns, and the dolls are usually left unvarnished.Creative Kokeshi (Shingata Kokeshi)These emerged after World War II and allow for more artistic freedom.Unlike traditional Kokeshi, they are not restricted by regional styles or patterns, leading to a variety of innovative designs and forms.They may include more elaborate decorations, different shapes, and varnished finishes.CharacteristicsMaterials: Made from different types of wood, such as cherry, dogwood, or chestnut, each providing a distinct texture and finish.Construction: Traditionally, Kokeshi dolls are lathe-turned and hand-painted. The head is often a separate piece attached to the body.Design: Typically, the dolls have no arms or legs. The facial features are simple, often just eyes and a mouth, with minimal detail.Sizes: They come in various sizes, from a few inches to over a foot tall.Cultural SignificanceSymbolism: Kokeshi dolls are often associated with protection against evil and are believed to bring good luck. They are sometimes given as gifts for good fortune or to comfort someone who is grieving.Craftsmanship: The making of Kokeshi dolls is a respected art form, with many artisans dedicating their lives to perfecting their craft. Each region's style represents its unique cultural heritage.Modern Appeal: While rooted in tradition, Kokeshi dolls have seen a resurgence in popularity, appealing to both collectors and those interested in traditional Japanese art and culture.Collecting KokeshiAuthenticity: Collectors often seek traditional Kokeshi made by renowned artisans, each piece often signed and dated.Value: The value of a Kokeshi doll can vary greatly depending on its age, condition, and the reputation of the artist.Display: They are commonly displayed in homes, both as decorative items and as symbols of cultural pride.Kokeshi dolls embody a blend of simplicity and elegance, making them cherished items in Japanese culture and a fascinating subject for collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.ShippingWe always send the item with a tracking number. So please place an order without any concern on delivery. You can always track the delivery status.Shipping is only available to the address registered in eBay. If you want us to send another address, please change your address on eBay and then place an order.Shipping is available from Monday to Friday. Weekends are not available because freight (shipping) companies are closed.We do not mark merchandise values below value or mark items as ?gifts? ? Japan, US and International government regulations prohibit such behavior.If your address is in the remote areas defined by the freight (shipping) company, please pay the additional shipping fees with PayPal.About Importer's ObligationImport duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding or buying. Thank you for your understanding.

Price: 28 USD

Location: Yokohama, Kanagawa

End Time: 2025-01-19T02:50:49.000Z

Shipping Cost: 18 USD