This vintage Sōsaku Kokeshi 創作こけし was created by Kato Masami 加藤正美, born in 1925, an important artist associated with Japan’s mid-century creative kokeshi movement.
Unlike traditional kokeshi, which follow established regional styles, Sōsaku Kokeshi developed as a more individual form of artistic expression. Each artist was free to experiment with shape, proportion, carving, colour, and subject matter, transforming the humble wooden doll into a small piece of modern Japanese folk art.
This example is especially playful in design. The doll has a rounded, almost childlike silhouette, with a large spherical head, softly painted facial features, and a small topknot. On the body is a charming umbrella motif, accompanied by the word “LOVE”.
Kato Masami’s work is admired for combining the simplicity of Japanese folk craft with a gentle, poetic sense of humour. His dolls often feature simplified forms and expressive faces, allowing even very minimal decoration to convey a distinct personality.
The umbrella itself can also evoke themes of shelter, companionship, and protection, making its pairing with the word “LOVE” particularly endearing. The result is a small object that feels both nostalgic and surprisingly contemporary.
Size: 5 x 5 x 10cm
