{"title":"Usaburō Okamoto 岡本卯三郎","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"k20050-sosaku-kokeshi-by-usaburo-okamoto-岡本卯三郎","title":"K20050 - Sosaku by Usaburō Okamoto 岡本卯三郎","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"vertical-align: inherit;\" dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"vertical-align: inherit;\" dir=\"auto\"\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;\"\u003eThis elegant and expressive sōsaku kokeshi from 1974 was handcrafted by the celebrated kokeshi master Usaburō Okamoto 岡本卯三郎, one of the most influential figures in the world of creative kokeshi. Standing 22cm tall, the doll features a serene downward gaze and a stylized bob haircut topped with a rounded bun. Her body is adorned with delicate hand-painted red and white plum blossoms (ume), On this kokeshi, the plum blossoms may represent the inner strength and quiet dignity of the figure—echoing the calm expression and minimalist form. It’s a perfect match for Okamoto’s artistic philosophy: merging natural beauty, symbolism, and craftsmanship into one understated yet meaningful object. The use of dark lacquer-like tones on the kimono contrasts beautifully with the natural wood grain of the face and base, showcasing Okamoto’s signature style, where traditional themes meet modern form. The doll bears a hand-written inscription and seal stamp on the bottom, affirming its authenticity and artistic provenance. Usaburō Okamoto born in 1917 in Gunma Prefecture, Usaburō Okamoto was originally trained as a metalworker in Tokyo. After returning to his hometown in the late 1940s, he applied his mechanical and design knowledge to reinvent kokeshi-making. A pioneer of the sōsaku (creative) kokeshi movement, Okamoto introduced techniques such as pyrography (burn engraving) and used woods like chestnut and zelkova, which were rare in traditional dolls. His work earned widespread acclaim, including the Minister of International Trade and Industry Award and honors from the Japanese Imperial Family. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"vertical-align: inherit;\" dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"vertical-align: inherit;\" dir=\"auto\"\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: 7 x 7 x 22cm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53275775009099,"sku":"EB-388893162849","price":48.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/temple_848d927e-f7bc-4b76-abe9-69475d0ff7ed.jpg?v=1758116041"},{"product_id":"k18101-sosaku-by-usaburo-okamoto-岡本卯三郎","title":"K18101 - Sosaku by Usaburō Okamoto 岡本卯三郎","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA sōsaku kokeshi doll storage case created by the renowned artist Usaburō Okamoto (岡本卯三郎, 1917–2009) a master known for revolutionizing modern kokeshi with his inventive, design-driven approach. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCrafted with a warm, polished wood tone features a minimalist face, serene expression, and a charming plum blossom motif on its body. What makes this piece truly special is its hidden compartment: the head lifts off to reveal a small hollow for storing tiny keepsakes or trinkets—blending beauty with utility. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUsaburō Okamoto born in a Shinto village, Okamoto moved to Tokyo at the age of 15 to train in metalworking before returning to his hometown post-war. With this technical background, he introduced mechanical techniques and innovative aesthetics into kokeshi craftsmanship, departing from the constraints of traditional forms. He often used chestnut and other rare woods, and developed a unique pyro-engraving technique using heated wire to burn intricate patterns into the wood. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe won the Minister of International Trade and Industry Award at the 20th All-Japan Kokeshi Competition in 1978. Okamoto’s dolls, including this storage case, continue to captivate collectors with their fusion of rustic warmth and thoughtful design. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSize: 9 x 9 x 19cm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈20cm","offer_id":53313819050315,"sku":null,"price":50.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/1755254841.webp?v=1756987179"},{"product_id":"japanese-vintage-usaburo-kokeshi-doll","title":"K20062 - Sosaku by Usaburō Okamoto 岡本卯三郎","description":"\u003cp\u003eVery good condition. Usaburo Kokeshi is a kokeshi creation studio located in Ikaho, Gunma Prefecture, founded in 1955. As you can see the iconic hair style, it designed by the first generation Usaburo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll the wood of Usaburo kokeshi is produced in Gunma Prefecture. Her hair and body matches wood color and shows the harmony of the design. On the body it has scenery of the Hida Folk Village, located in Gifu, Japan. Some buildings of this village are now listed as National Important Cultural Properties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize: 18cm tall\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈18cm","offer_id":53405794009419,"sku":"K20062","price":30.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/temple_0187ff06-93b8-4517-96aa-b8b23e9dd3e5.jpg?v=1758115764"},{"product_id":"k18106-sosaku-by-usaburo-okamoto-岡本卯三郎","title":"K18106 - Sosaku by Usaburō Okamoto 岡本卯三郎","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA sōsaku kokeshi doll storage case created by the renowned artist Usaburō Okamoto (岡本卯三郎, 1917–2009) a master known for revolutionizing modern kokeshi with his inventive, design-driven approach. Crafted with a warm, polished wood tone features a minimalist face, serene expression, and a charming plum blossom motif on its body. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUsaburō Okamoto born in a Shinto village, Okamoto moved to Tokyo at the age of 15 to train in metalworking before returning to his hometown post-war. With this technical background, he introduced mechanical techniques and innovative aesthetics into kokeshi craftsmanship, departing from the constraints of traditional forms. He often used chestnut and other rare woods, and developed a unique pyro-engraving technique using heated wire to burn intricate patterns into the wood. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe won the Minister of International Trade and Industry Award at the 20th All-Japan Kokeshi Competition in 1978. Okamoto’s dolls, including this storage case, continue to captivate collectors with their fusion of rustic warmth and thoughtful design. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSize: 7 x 7 x 18cm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈18cm","offer_id":53358054244683,"sku":"K18106","price":39.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/1757514321.jpg?v=1757514410"},{"product_id":"k25109-omiyage-kokeshi-by-usaburo-okamoto-岡本卯三郎","title":"K25109 - Omiyage Kokeshi by Usaburō Okamoto 岡本卯三郎","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis is a beautifully crafted omiyage kokeshi doll from Nakanosawa (中の沢), made by the renowned kokeshi artisan by \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUsaburō Okamoto (岡本卯三郎, 1917–2009)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsaburō Okamoto born in a Shinto village, Okamoto moved to Tokyo at the age of 15 to train in metalworking before returning to his hometown post-war. With this technical background, he introduced mechanical techniques and innovative aesthetics into kokeshi craftsmanship, departing from the constraints of traditional forms. He often used chestnut and other rare woods, and developed a unique pyro-engraving technique using heated wire to burn intricate patterns into the wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe won the Minister of International Trade and Industry Award at the 20th All-Japan Kokeshi Competition in 1978. Okamoto’s dolls, including this storage case, continue to captivate collectors with their fusion of rustic warmth and thoughtful design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat sets this kokeshi apart is the landscape painting on the torso — a tranquil rural scene depicting a traditional Japanese thatched house nestled among trees, with distant mountains and birds overhead. The body is finished in a combination of natural and dark lacquered wood, highlighting the contrast in texture and color. The use of natural wood grain enhances the rustic elegance of the piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize: 6 x 6 x 24cm\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈25cm","offer_id":56277838201163,"sku":null,"price":29.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/temple_14bbad93-07e9-42ae-843e-07306f626653.jpg?v=1768065248"},{"product_id":"k25130-sosaku-kokeshi-by-usaburo-okamoto-岡本卯三郎","title":"K25130 - Sosaku Kokeshi by Usaburō Okamoto 岡本卯三郎","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis sōsaku kokeshi titled 「寿光」 (Jukō, “Light of Longevity”) was created by Usaburō Okamoto 岡本卯三郎 (1917-2009), one of the most influential figures in the creative kokeshi movement. Standing at an impressive scale, the doll embodies Okamoto’s signature balance of bold form, refined elegance, and symbolic decoration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe figure is carved with a powerful, gently tapered silhouette and crowned with Okamoto’s iconic rounded black coiffure, framing a serene, introspective face rendered with minimal lines and a calm, inward gaze. The deep, lustrous black ground of the body serves as a dramatic backdrop for the composition’s focal point: a large red and white plum blossom (梅) rendered with warmth and quiet strength. The plum, one of Japan’s most auspicious motifs, symbolizes perseverance, renewal, and longevity, flowering bravely in late winter before the arrival of spring—perfectly echoing the title Jukō.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe patterned textile motifs surrounding the blossom evoke traditional kimono fabrics, adding depth and rhythm without overwhelming the composition. This careful restraint is a hallmark of Okamoto’s work: decorative yet dignified, expressive yet timeless.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNotably, this design remains in continuous production by Okamoto’s descendants, a rare distinction that speaks to its enduring popularity and artistic significance. It stands as both a masterwork of mid-20th-century sōsaku kokeshi and a living legacy, connecting generations through form, symbolism, and craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eElegant, symbolic, and deeply rooted in Japanese aesthetics, Jukō is a quintessential example of Usaburō Okamoto’s lasting contribution to the art of creative kokeshi.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize: 11 x 11 x 27cm \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈25cm","offer_id":56464694706507,"sku":"K25130","price":89.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/temple_25535e72-33a7-4144-8970-1d2166cd6b20.jpg?v=1770208690"},{"product_id":"k25151-sosaku-kokeshi-by-usaburo-okamoto-岡本卯三郎","title":"K25151 - Sosaku Kokeshi by Usaburō Okamoto 岡本卯三郎","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis exceptional Sōsaku Kokeshi titled 「山の詩」 (Poem of the Mountains) is a work by 岡本卯三郎 (Usaburō Okamoto), a highly acclaimed artist recognized as a 通産大臣賞作家 (recipient of the Minister of International Trade and Industry Award)—one of the most prestigious honors in Japanese craft.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe doll embodies Okamoto’s signature style, where sculptural simplicity meets richly expressive surface design. The figure features a softly rounded head with finely incised hairlines radiating delicately across the crown, framing a serene face with gently closed eyes and a small red accent at the nose. The expression conveys quiet contemplation, as if immersed in the stillness of nature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe body serves as a vivid canvas depicting a mountain landscape in autumn, rendered in layered tones of deep green, warm ochre, russet red, and golden hues. Stylized leaves and sweeping forms suggest the changing seasons, while a central scene evokes rolling hills and forested valleys. The composition is both abstract and representational, capturing not a literal place but the poetic essence of mountains—their rhythm, color, and atmosphere.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOkamoto’s work is celebrated for this harmonious balance between traditional kokeshi form and painterly innovation. The smooth turning of the wood provides a calm, stable silhouette, while the intricate hand-painted design transforms the piece into a narrative object—one that reflects the beauty and emotional resonance of the natural world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs an award-winning artist, Usaburō Okamoto’s kokeshi are highly regarded for their craftsmanship and artistic depth. This piece, 「山の詩」, stands as a refined example of his vision: a quiet, lyrical tribute to the mountains, where form, color, and feeling come together in perfect harmony.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize: 11 x 11 x 27cm\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈25cm","offer_id":56854516105547,"sku":"K25151","price":135.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/temple_10d4acd6-2327-46ab-8013-a922bd9e9c5d.jpg?v=1774084144"},{"product_id":"k10218-sosaku-by-usaburo-okamoto-岡本卯三郎","title":"K10218 - Sosaku by Usaburō Okamoto 岡本卯三郎","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis charming Sōsaku Kokeshi titled “Akogare” (あこがれ, “Longing”) by Okamoto Usaburō (岡本卯三郎) captures a tender, dreamlike moment through its softly rounded, almost egg-shaped form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe figure is rendered with remarkable simplicity, its smooth silhouette gently tapering from base to crown. A warm gradient of color flows from natural wood tones into a soft, glowing red, creating an atmosphere of quiet warmth and emotional depth. Emerging subtly from the painted surface is the delicate image of a young girl, her eyes closed and expression serene, as if lost in thought or quiet yearning. The minimal facial details—paired with small white dotted motifs—enhance the poetic ambiguity of the piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOkamoto’s mastery lies in restraint: rather than relying on elaborate carving, he allows color, form, and negative space to evoke feeling. The composition feels intimate and introspective, perfectly aligned with the title Akogare, suggesting longing, admiration, or distant dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsaburō Okamoto born in a Shinto village, Okamoto moved to Tokyo at the age of 15 to train in metalworking before returning to his hometown post-war. With this technical background, he introduced mechanical techniques and innovative aesthetics into kokeshi craftsmanship, departing from the constraints of traditional forms. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize: 6 x 6 x 12cm\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈10cm","offer_id":57085853401419,"sku":"K10218","price":40.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/temple_7e304b95-0b77-4bb3-80ae-bb7fdd8d3c0f.jpg?v=1776788140"},{"product_id":"k25198-sosaku-by-usaburo-okamoto-岡本卯三郎","title":"K25198 - Sosaku by Usaburō Okamoto 岡本卯三郎","description":"\u003cp\u003eA sōsaku kokeshi doll storage case created by the renowned artist Usaburō Okamoto (岡本卯三郎, 1917–2009) a master known for revolutionizing modern kokeshi with his inventive, design-driven approach. Crafted with a warm, polished wood tone features a minimalist face, serene expression, and a charming plum blossom motif on its body.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsaburō Okamoto born in a Shinto village, Okamoto moved to Tokyo at the age of 15 to train in metalworking before returning to his hometown post-war. With this technical background, he introduced mechanical techniques and innovative aesthetics into kokeshi craftsmanship, departing from the constraints of traditional forms. He often used chestnut and other rare woods, and developed a unique pyro-engraving technique using heated wire to burn intricate patterns into the wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe won the Minister of International Trade and Industry Award at the 20th All-Japan Kokeshi Competition in 1978. Okamoto’s dolls, including this storage case, continue to captivate collectors with their fusion of rustic warmth and thoughtful design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize: 9 x 9 x 25cm\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈25cm","offer_id":57682890621259,"sku":"K25198","price":52.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/temple_05ec2579-cbe9-4d87-ba08-e64de02e3441.jpg?v=1782458284"},{"product_id":"k30070-sosaku-kokeshi-by-usaburo-okamoto-岡本卯三郎","title":"K30070 - Sosaku Kokeshi by Usaburō Okamoto 岡本卯三郎","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis is a beautifully crafted omiyage kokeshi doll from Nakanosawa (中の沢), made by the renowned kokeshi artisan by\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUsaburō Okamoto (岡本卯三郎, 1917–2009)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsaburō Okamoto born in a Shinto village, Okamoto moved to Tokyo at the age of 15 to train in metalworking before returning to his hometown post-war. With this technical background, he introduced mechanical techniques and innovative aesthetics into kokeshi craftsmanship, departing from the constraints of traditional forms. He often used chestnut and other rare woods, and developed a unique pyro-engraving technique using heated wire to burn intricate patterns into the wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe won the Minister of International Trade and Industry Award at the 20th All-Japan Kokeshi Competition in 1978. Okamoto’s dolls, including this storage case, continue to captivate collectors with their fusion of rustic warmth and thoughtful design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat sets this kokeshi apart is the landscape painting on the torso — a tranquil rural scene depicting a traditional Japanese thatched house nestled among trees, with distant mountains and birds overhead. The body is finished in a combination of natural and dark lacquered wood, highlighting the contrast in texture and color. The use of natural wood grain enhances the rustic elegance of the piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize: 8 x 8 x 30cm\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈30cm","offer_id":57754976846155,"sku":"K30070","price":35.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/temple_7895092a-4201-4755-b63c-413380479d69.jpg?v=1783062279"},{"product_id":"k25203-sosaku-by-usaburo-okamoto-岡本卯三郎","title":"K25203 - Sosaku by Usaburō Okamoto 岡本卯三郎","description":"\u003cp\u003eA sōsaku kokeshi doll storage case created by the renowned artist Usaburō Okamoto (岡本卯三郎, 1917–2009) a master known for revolutionizing modern kokeshi with his inventive, design-driven approach. Crafted with a warm, polished wood tone features a minimalist face, serene expression, and a charming plum blossom motif on its body.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsaburō Okamoto born in a Shinto village, Okamoto moved to Tokyo at the age of 15 to train in metalworking before returning to his hometown post-war. With this technical background, he introduced mechanical techniques and innovative aesthetics into kokeshi craftsmanship, departing from the constraints of traditional forms. He often used chestnut and other rare woods, and developed a unique pyro-engraving technique using heated wire to burn intricate patterns into the wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe won the Minister of International Trade and Industry Award at the 20th All-Japan Kokeshi Competition in 1978. Okamoto’s dolls, including this storage case, continue to captivate collectors with their fusion of rustic warmth and thoughtful design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize: 9 x 9 x 24cm\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈25cm","offer_id":57937892868427,"sku":"K25203","price":45.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/Cover_df9a8e1b-5218-4a0c-bf5d-5198096cffe2.jpg?v=1784903100"},{"product_id":"k30080-sosaku-kokeshi-by-usaburo-okamoto-岡本卯三郎","title":"K30080 - Sosaku Kokeshi by Usaburō Okamoto 岡本卯三郎","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis original Sōsaku Kokeshi titled \"Tsubaki\" (椿 – Camellia) was created by renowned master Usaburō Okamoto (岡本卯三郎), one of the most celebrated figures in the world of modern creative kokeshi. Recognized as a recipient of the prestigious Minister of International Trade and Industry Award (通産大臣賞), Okamoto is admired for elevating kokeshi from traditional folk toys into refined works of Japanese art.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis elegant piece beautifully captures the tranquil spirit that defines Okamoto's creations. The doll's distinctive oversized dark coiffure gently frames a delicately painted face, whose softly closed eyes and subtle smile convey serenity and quiet introspection. Flowing across the natural wood body is a branch of vibrant red camellias (tsubaki), their rich blossoms contrasting beautifully with deep green leaves and the warm grain of the wood. In Japanese culture, the camellia symbolizes elegance, dignity, and the arrival of spring, making it a timeless and meaningful motif.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOkamoto's work is celebrated for its harmonious balance between minimalist form and expressive decoration. Rather than relying on elaborate ornamentation, he allows the natural beauty of the wood and the emotional subtlety of the figure to speak for themselves. This restrained aesthetic has made his kokeshi highly sought after by collectors both in Japan and abroad.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA wonderful example of postwar Japanese craftsmanship, \"Tsubaki\" is both an artistic sculpture and a heartfelt expression of the Sōsaku Kokeshi movement, bringing warmth, tranquility, and understated elegance to any collection or interior.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize: 11 x 11 x 30cm \u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈30cm","offer_id":57952414204235,"sku":"K30080","price":79.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/Cover_5efd76d7-5249-42bf-bb1e-9d5e6a1fbc65.jpg?v=1785151190"},{"product_id":"k15171-sosaku-kokeshi-by-usaburo-okamoto-岡本卯三郎","title":"K15171 - Sosaku Kokeshi by Usaburō Okamoto 岡本卯三郎","description":"\u003cp\u003eRare. An unusual vintage Sōsaku Kokeshi (創作こけし) by renowned kokeshi artist Usaburō Okamoto (1917-2009) 岡本卯三郎, combining the refined simplicity of creative kokeshi with the playful character of a Japanese travel souvenir.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt distinctive is the large illustrated emblem on the front reading “BULLDOG TOUR – IBARAKI”. At its center is a humorous bulldog smoking a pipe. This kokeshi was produced as a commemorative piece connected with a group tour in Ibaraki Prefecture, making it an interesting intersection of Japanese folk craft, tourism culture, and graphic design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsaburō Okamoto (岡本卯三郎) was an important figure in the development of modern creative kokeshi. His work helped transform the traditional wooden doll into a more individual form of decorative art, emphasizing sculptural silhouettes, expressive use of natural wood, and restrained facial features. He was recognized as a 通産大臣賞作家, a recipient of the prestigious Minister of International Trade and Industry Award for his craftsmanship.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize: 7 x 7 x 15cm\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈15cm","offer_id":58082645344587,"sku":"K15171","price":39.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/Cover_19b51a6a-d603-47a8-9d45-28403d66575a.jpg?v=1786299295"},{"product_id":"k30102-sosaku-kokeshi-by-usaburo-okamoto-岡本卯三郎","title":"K30102 - Sosaku Kokeshi by Usaburō Okamoto 岡本卯三郎","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis is a beautifully crafted omiyage kokeshi doll from Nakanosawa (中の沢), made by the renowned kokeshi artisan by Usaburō Okamoto (岡本卯三郎, 1917–2009)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsaburō Okamoto born in a Shinto village, Okamoto moved to Tokyo at the age of 15 to train in metalworking before returning to his hometown post-war. With this technical background, he introduced mechanical techniques and innovative aesthetics into kokeshi craftsmanship, departing from the constraints of traditional forms. He often used chestnut and other rare woods, and developed a unique pyro-engraving technique using heated wire to burn intricate patterns into the wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe won the Minister of International Trade and Industry Award at the 20th All-Japan Kokeshi Competition in 1978. Okamoto’s dolls, including this storage case, continue to captivate collectors with their fusion of rustic warmth and thoughtful design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat sets this kokeshi apart is the landscape painting on the torso. The body is finished in a combination of natural and dark lacquered wood, highlighting the contrast in texture and color. The use of natural wood grain enhances the rustic elegance of the piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize: 8 x 8 x 29cm\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Kyo","offers":[{"title":"≈30cm","offer_id":58593814839627,"sku":"K30102","price":35.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0964\/9746\/7723\/files\/Cover_f6ed2f7b-d5de-4d9a-9a6b-2fd52a042628.jpg?v=1790317014"}],"url":"https:\/\/maisonkyo.be\/collections\/usaburo-okamoto-%e5%b2%a1%e6%9c%ac%e5%8d%af%e4%b8%89%e9%83%8e.oembed","provider":"Maison Kyo","version":"1.0","type":"link"}