{"title":"Kiyohara Takao 清原たかを","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"k30001-sosaku-kokeshi-by-kiyohara-takao","title":"K30001 - Sosaku Shingata by Kiyohara Takao 清原たかを","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(90, 101, 102); font-family: V-Inter, V_INTER, 'V_INTER Fallback', 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica-Neue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve-breaks;\"\u003eKiyohara Takao 清原たかを (1916-) is one of the most popular and prolific of the creative Kokshi artists and began creating dolls after serving as a pilot in the Japanese\/American war. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(90, 101, 102); font-family: V-Inter, V_INTER, 'V_INTER Fallback', 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica-Neue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve-breaks;\"\u003eHe was considered a transitional artist, due to the fact that many of his dolls resemble traditional Tougatta or Yamagata dolls. His dolls are artistically and minimally decorated. He was awarded the Minister’s Prize four times along with the Enterprise Agency top prize on two occasions. Kiyohara Takao’s Sōsaku Kokeshi are known for their Innovative and sculptural designs, often moving beyond the classic cylindrical body into more intricate and flowing shapes. Unique hand-painted motifs, incorporating both traditional Japanese aesthetics (such as cherry blossoms, cranes, or calligraphic brushstrokes) and modern abstract patterns. Lacquered surfaces for a polished and refined look. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(90, 101, 102); font-family: V-Inter, V_INTER, 'V_INTER Fallback', 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica-Neue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve-breaks;\"\u003eThe unique key characteristic of Kiyohara pieces is ‘the arched eyes and eyebrow. He employs simple turning techniques in either a straight fashion or a bulbous shape which aid in defining the body of each doll, and are directly inspired by Traditional kokeshi forms. Kiyohara Takao’s work is deeply respected in the Sōsaku Kokeshi movement, which emerged in the mid-20th century as a way for artists to explore kokeshi as a form of personal artistic expression rather than purely folk craft. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(90, 101, 102); font-family: V-Inter, V_INTER, 'V_INTER Fallback', 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica-Neue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve-breaks;\"\u003eTheir dolls are celebrated for their harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, making them sought after by collectors and enthusiasts of Japanese contemporary folk art. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(90, 101, 102); font-family: V-Inter, V_INTER, 'V_INTER Fallback', 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica-Neue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve-breaks;\"\u003eSize: 30cm tall\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈30cm","offer_id":53302326198603,"sku":"K30001","price":60.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/1750320382.jpg?v=1758014559"},{"product_id":"sosaku-kokeshi-by-kiyohara-takao","title":"K15018 - Sosaku kokeshi by Kiyohara Takao 清原たかを","description":"\u003cp\u003eKiyohara Takao is one of the most popular and prolific of the creative Kokeshi artists and began creating dolls after serving as a pilot in the Japanese\/American war. He was considered a transitional artist because many of his dolls resemble traditional Tougatta or Yamagata dolls. His dolls are artistically and minimally decorated. He was awarded the Minister’s Prize four times along with the Enterprise Agency top prize on two different occasions. Kyohara is an artist who defies classification, while he is a well-established and popular Kokensi doll maker who at the beginning of his career, was known as a “Transitional” artist. Little is known about whom he might have studied under, or for that matter, where he operated his studio. Most sources agree that since he is not included in any books on the traditional artists, nor is there mention of him with other well-known creative artists, he has been accorded his own place: that of the \"mystery man\". He has been awarded the MIND Award, (Ministry of Industry).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize: 15cm tall \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈15cm","offer_id":53373657710923,"sku":"K15018","price":25.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/temple_b98882d3-2197-4c83-b0ac-2dd8e2b0e853.jpg?v=1757687968"},{"product_id":"sosaku-kokeshi-by-kiyohara-takao-1","title":"K18066 - Sosaku Shingata by Kiyohara Takao 清原たかを","description":"\u003cp\u003eTransitional Sosaku created by Kiyohara\u003cbr\u003eTakao.\u003cbr\u003eThis kokeshi is an example of a Shingata (transitional) doll, embodying the characteristics of a traditional family Tougatta, visible in the head and face (narrow eyes\u003cbr\u003eand split nose) and in the hairstyle (chrysanthemum on the top of the hair, fringe and side fringes)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSignature on the bottom.\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 18.5 tall\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKiyohara is one of the most popular and\u003cbr\u003ethe most prolific creative artists\u003cbr\u003ecreative Kokeshi dolls. Start making dolls\u003cbr\u003eafter training as a pilot in the Japanese-American War. Many of his dolls resemble\u003cbr\u003etraditional Tougatta or Yamagata dolls. His dolls are artistically and minimalistically decorated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe received the Minister's Award four times and\u003cbr\u003etwice the Enterprise Agency award. This piece is an award winner and retains the tag indicating the award.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈18cm","offer_id":53378820702539,"sku":"K18066","price":28.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/temple_1d243240-c003-4f4a-925a-a69017224fb2.jpg?v=1757779658"},{"product_id":"k30016-sosaku-shingata-by-kiyohara-takao-清原たかを","title":"K30016 - Sosaku Shingata by Kiyohara Takao 清原たかを","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis striking Sōsaku Kokeshi titled \"Koraku\" (Happiness) was created by the enigmatic artist Kiyohara Takao (清原たかを). Measuring 30cm in height, the doll beautifully bridges tradition and modernity, capturing the essence of a transitional era in Kokeshi craftsmanship.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRendered in a soft, muted gray palette, this piece pays homage to the traditional school through its minimalist use of color and classic Rokuro Moyo (ろくろ模様) the carefully spaced horizontal lines that wrap the body in rhythmic harmony. The doll’s facial features echo the Tougatta lineage, with a stylized simplicity that conveys serenity and quiet joy.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKiyohara Takao was born in 1916 and is considered one of the highly respected artisans in the realm of Sōsaku Kokeshi. Though not as widely known as some mainstream names, his work is cherished among collectors for its modernist sensibility and clear artistic identity. His approach often favored bold forms and minimalist detail, focusing on the purity of line, symmetry, and subtle surface treatment.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMany of his dolls, like this one, reflect the \"Shingata\" movement, Kokeshi that deviate from traditional lineage and styles yet still retain the craftsmanship and philosophical depth rooted in Japanese folk traditions. His dolls are often tall, slim, and decorated with precision, typically painted with modest color palettes or left to highlight the natural beauty of the wood.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDue to his understated style, Kiyohara’s dolls are sometimes referred to as “quietly modern” unassuming yet full of presence. Collectors value his work for its architectural clarity and its ability to convey emotion through the simplest of means. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSize: 9 x 9 x 30cm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈30cm","offer_id":53394020467019,"sku":null,"price":65.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/1758013749.jpg?v=1758014259"},{"product_id":"k20096-shingata-by-kiyohara-takao-清原たかを","title":"K20096 - Shingata by Kiyohara Takao 清原たかを","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis Shingata Kokeshi by Kiyohara Takao (清原たかを) exemplifies the refined craftsmanship and elegant simplicity characteristic of Japan’s mid-20th century creative kokeshi movement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe doll’s elongated form and soft natural wood tones highlight the maker’s sensitivity to balance and proportion. Her serene expression—gently smiling with delicate eyes—captures a sense of calm introspection. The body is beautifully hand-painted with a symmetrical pattern of stylized black flowers with golden centers, accented by deep crimson bands around the collar and base. The contrast of color and the minimal yet bold floral design evoke a sense of quiet sophistication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKiyohara Takao is known for creating dolls that bridge the traditions of dentō kokeshi (traditional) and sōsaku kokeshi (creative). His style often preserves the recognizable form of classic kokeshi while introducing modern interpretations of color and pattern. This blending of old and new defines the Shingata (新型, “new style”) category—works that honor tradition while embracing individuality and artistic freedom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis piece beautifully captures the harmony of simplicity and artistry, with each brushstroke and carved curve reflecting Kiyohara’s deep respect for natural materials and traditional Japanese aesthetics. A lovely representation of the transition between classical and creative forms in the evolution of postwar kokeshi art.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize: 6 x 6 x 20.5cm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈20cm","offer_id":53603093709131,"sku":"K20096","price":38.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/template_1_52ebb3fb-188a-4b0f-96f3-7a9810daa63a.jpg?v=1760457214"},{"product_id":"k18139-sosaku-shingata-by-kiyohara-takao-清原たかを","title":"K18139 - Sosaku Shingata by Kiyohara Takao 清原たかを","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis sōsaku shingata kokeshi of Kiyohara Takao 清原たかを, one of the most popular and influential figures of the mid-20th-century creative kokeshi movement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis award winner doll presents a quietly confident form: a gently elongated cylindrical body supporting a rounded head, finished in warm natural wood tones. The surface is minimally decorated, allowing the beauty of the material and form to take center stage. Two small, stylized floral motifs punctuate the body, while a band of deep green at the collar subtly anchors the composition. The face is unmistakably Kiyohara’s—arched, smiling eyes and softly curved brows convey warmth, serenity, and a sense of inner calm. This expression, both playful and meditative, is one of his most recognizable signatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile firmly part of the sōsaku movement, the doll retains echoes of classic Tōgatta and Yamagata kokeshi in its proportions and turning technique. The clean silhouette, restrained palette, and balanced symmetry demonstrate his mastery of simplicity—nothing is excessive, yet nothing feels unfinished.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKiyohara’s work is widely admired for its sculptural clarity and emotional accessibility. The polished surface, flowing contours, and gentle expression embody the ideals of sōsaku kokeshi: personal expression rooted in tradition, elevated through thoughtful design. This piece stands as a graceful example of his enduring legacy and the quiet strength of minimalist Japanese folk-modern art.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize: 6 x 6 x 18cm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈18cm","offer_id":56490435117387,"sku":"K18139","price":33.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/temple_187b3885-d624-4c72-b526-88cd02a86523.jpg?v=1770671028"},{"product_id":"k20152-sosaku-kokeshi-by-kiyohara-takao-清原たかを","title":"K20152 - Sosaku kokeshi by Kiyohara Takao 清原たかを","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis rare Sōsaku kokeshi by Kiyohara Takao (清原たかを) is a striking example of the artist’s quietly modern aesthetic and refined sculptural sensibility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCarved with a slender, gently tapering body, the figure exudes an architectural clarity that is both simple and deeply expressive. The textured, darkened surface of the body—rich with earthy, almost charred tones—contrasts beautifully with the smooth, lighter head, creating a subtle interplay between raw materiality and polished form. Delicate white floral accents emerge softly from the darker ground, adding a poetic, almost ephemeral presence without disturbing the overall restraint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe face is rendered with remarkable economy: narrow, gently closed eyes and a faint, contented smile, capturing a moment of quiet introspection. The hair is defined by bold, minimal brushstrokes framing the face, reinforcing Kiyohara’s focus on line and balance over ornamentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBorn in 1916, Kiyohara Takao is regarded as one of the respected yet understated figures in the world of Sōsaku Kokeshi. His work, though less widely known than some contemporaries, is deeply appreciated by collectors for its modernist sensibility and strong artistic identity. Associated with the Shingata movement, his kokeshi depart from strict traditional forms while remaining rooted in the spirit of Japanese folk craft. His approach emphasizes purity of line, symmetry, and subtle surface treatment, often using restrained palettes to highlight the natural beauty of the wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOften described as “quietly modern,” Kiyohara’s creations possess an unassuming presence that reveals depth over time. This piece is a beautiful embodiment of that philosophy—a contemplative object where simplicity, texture, and form come together to evoke a profound sense of stillness and enduring elegance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize: 7 x 7 x 20cm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈20cm","offer_id":57211411267915,"sku":"K20152","price":55.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/temple_49dad97d-3e30-4108-9e2c-9cf499f6009a.jpg?v=1777911138"},{"product_id":"k25171-sosaku-shingata-by-kiyohara-takao-清原たかを","title":"K25171 - Sosaku Shingata by Kiyohara Takao 清原たかを","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis expressive sōsaku kokeshi by Kiyohara Takao (清原たかを) beautifully reflects the artist’s unique position within the evolution of modern kokeshi craftsmanship. Often regarded as a transitional figure between traditional and creative styles, Kiyohara developed works that retained the warmth and structure of classic Tōgatta and Yamagata kokeshi while introducing a more refined, artistic sensibility rooted in the sōsaku movement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe doll’s rounded head and softly smiling expression evoke the familiar charm of traditional kokeshi, yet its balanced proportions, elegant line work, and restrained decoration reveal a distinctly modern approach. Painted in rich shades of crimson and black, the body is adorned with vivid hand-painted camellia (tsubaki, 椿) blossoms — a flower long associated in Japanese aesthetics with quiet strength, elegance, and the beauty of winter. Their bold petals create a striking contrast against the warm natural wood grain, while the dark banding around the torso and neck enhances the sculptural clarity of the piece, giving it a composed and architectural presence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKiyohara Takao was celebrated for his innovative yet understated artistry. Though many of his works appear deceptively simple, they are deeply thoughtful in composition and proportion. His dolls are admired for their minimalist decoration, refined symmetry, and ability to convey warmth through subtle expression rather than excessive ornamentation. Over the course of his career, he received significant recognition, including the Minister’s Prize on four occasions and the Small and Medium Enterprise Agency Director’s Award twice—honors that affirmed his importance within the world of creative kokeshi.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize: 7 x 7 x 23cm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈25cm","offer_id":57253956550987,"sku":"K25171","price":38.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/temple_b5b85bf7-64fd-4a07-b4c6-3757f12360ce.jpg?v=1778322427"},{"product_id":"k35017-sosaku-shingata-by-kiyohara-takao-清原たかを","title":"K35017 - Sosaku Shingata by Kiyohara Takao 清原たかを","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis expressive sōsaku kokeshi by Kiyohara Takao (清原たかを) beautifully reflects the artist’s unique position within the evolution of modern kokeshi craftsmanship. Often regarded as a transitional figure between traditional and creative styles, Kiyohara developed works that retained the warmth and structure of classic Tōgatta and Yamagata kokeshi while introducing a more refined, artistic sensibility rooted in the sōsaku movement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe doll’s rounded head and softly smiling expression evoke the familiar charm of traditional kokeshi, yet its balanced proportions, elegant line work, and restrained decoration reveal a distinctly modern approach. Painted in rich shades of crimson and black, the body is adorned with vivid hand-painted camellia (tsubaki, 椿) blossoms — a flower long associated in Japanese aesthetics with quiet strength, elegance, and the beauty of winter. Their bold petals create a striking contrast against the warm natural wood grain, while the dark banding around the torso and neck enhances the sculptural clarity of the piece, giving it a composed and architectural presence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKiyohara Takao was celebrated for his innovative yet understated artistry. Though many of his works appear deceptively simple, they are deeply thoughtful in composition and proportion. His dolls are admired for their minimalist decoration, refined symmetry, and ability to convey warmth through subtle expression rather than excessive ornamentation. Over the course of his career, he received significant recognition, including the Minister’s Prize on four occasions and the Small and Medium Enterprise Agency Director’s Award twice—honors that affirmed his importance within the world of creative kokeshi.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize: 10 x 10 x 35cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈35cm","offer_id":58560941424971,"sku":"K35017","price":68.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/Cover_cf731d84-b2b9-4c34-a8e4-e57142921152.jpg?v=1790077499"},{"product_id":"k15182-sosaku-shingata-by-kiyohara-takao-清原たかを","title":"K15182 - Sosaku Shingata by Kiyohara Takao 清原たかを","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined vintage Sōsaku Shingata Kokeshi by Kiyohara Takao 清原たかを, one of the notable figures of Japan’s mid-20th-century creative kokeshi movement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis award-winning doll is a beautiful example of Kiyohara’s restrained and highly recognizable style. A softly elongated cylindrical body supports a rounded head, all finished in warm natural wood tones. Decoration is kept deliberately minimal, allowing the proportions, grain, and surface of the wood to remain central to the design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe body is accented by a deep green band near the collar and two small stylized floral motifs, adding just enough color to balance the otherwise quiet composition. The face is particularly characteristic of Kiyohara’s work, with gently arched brows, narrow smiling eyes, and a calm, almost meditative expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough firmly rooted in the Sōsaku Kokeshi movement, the doll still carries echoes of traditional kokeshi forms in its proportions and turning technique. The simplicity of the silhouette, limited palette, and careful symmetry demonstrate Kiyohara’s ability to modernize the kokeshi form without losing its connection to Japanese folk craft.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKiyohara Takao’s work is admired for its sculptural clarity, warmth, and emotional simplicity. Rather than relying on elaborate decoration, he used subtle form and expression to create dolls with a strong yet gentle presence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize: 5 x 5 x 15cm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈15cm","offer_id":58682135052619,"sku":"K15182","price":10.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/Cover_86345599-816c-4bb8-9271-b932ad9ecb26.jpg?v=1790961110"},{"product_id":"k10286-shingata-by-kiyohara-takao-清原たかを","title":"K10286 - Shingata by Kiyohara Takao 清原たかを","description":"\u003cp\u003eA charming Shingata Kokeshi created by renowned artisan Takao Kiyohara (清原たかを) Its elegant, slightly tapered body is decorated with a simple kimono design featuring a deep green obi, delicate white floral motifs, and the red inscription 鳴子 (Naruko), identifying its connection to the historic kokeshi-producing region.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe minimalist decoration and harmonious proportions reflect Kiyohara's distinctive artistic approach, combining simplicity, warmth, and understated elegance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTakao Kiyohara was a celebrated Japanese creative kokeshi artist, admired for his innovative yet refined approach to traditional wooden doll making. His works are characterised by minimalist decoration, balanced proportions, and subtle expressions, demonstrating his remarkable ability to convey personality and warmth through simplicity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThroughout his career, Kiyohara received significant recognition for his craftsmanship, including the Minister's Prize on four occasions and the Small and Medium Enterprise Agency Director's Award twice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis artistic legacy represents an important contribution to the development of modern Japanese creative kokeshi.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize: 3.5 x 3.5 x 10cm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈10cm","offer_id":59197046620491,"sku":"K10286","price":19.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/Cover_c8305cb2-b926-4190-b7fb-2a743dc85074.jpg?v=1794257320"}],"url":"https:\/\/maisonkyo.be\/collections\/kiyohara-takao-%e6%b8%85%e5%8e%9f%e3%81%9f%e3%81%8b%e3%82%92.oembed","provider":"Maison Kyo","version":"1.0","type":"link"}