Kokeshi doll in red

Kokeshi are wooden dolls of folk craft that originate from the Tōhoku region of north-eastern of Japan. They are characterized by their elongated minimal body and delicate hand-painted features.

These iconic dolls began to evolve from being a quaint folk toy to become an ornament and covetable collectors’ item.

Most dolls, created out of cherry and maple wood in lathe cylindrical, are made in two pieces: the head and the body.  The craftsman creates the head with a stem-plug that is forced into a tight hole in the body.  The tight fit produces a high squeaking sound when the head is twisted known as ki-ki or kyu-kyu sound. 

Featured large doll is inspired by a vintage doll with red and black stripes, giving it a traditional look, with a minimal, contemporary appeal.