This elegant Sōsaku Kokeshi 創作こけし, titled “Mai Sugata” 舞姿 (“Dancing Figure”), was created by Hosaka Torao 保坂虎男 (1906–2005), a noted creative kokeshi artist from Maebashi City, Gunma Prefecture.
Hosaka began making kokeshi in 1935, at the age of 29, and remained active for many decades during the Shōwa period. His work received recognition at the prestigious All Japan Kokeshi Contest 全日本こけしコンクール, reflecting the high level of craftsmanship and artistic individuality that defined his career.
This piece beautifully lives up to its title. The figure has an exceptionally slender, elongated silhouette, giving the impression of a dancer caught in a moment of graceful movement. The delicately painted face is serene and composed, with downcast eyes and a traditional coiffure gathered into a high topknot. A small cord detail around the hair adds a refined finishing touch.
The body is especially striking, with a broad upper section suggesting the volume of formal kimono sleeves, narrowing dramatically into a long, elegant lower form. Painted motifs in white, green, black, red, and blue decorate the natural wood surface, evoking textile patterns and kimono ornament. The combination of floral medallions, flowing lines, and geometric details gives the doll a strong sense of rhythm and movement.
Rather than depicting dance literally, Hosaka captures it through proportion, posture, and balance. The raised, sculptural upper body and tapered base create an almost floating quality, making the figure feel poised and theatrical.
A beautiful example of mid-century Japanese Sōsaku Kokeshi, “Mai Sugata” reflects the artistic freedom of the creative kokeshi movement while remaining deeply connected to traditional Japanese dress and performance aesthetics. It would be an especially appealing piece for collectors of Japanese folk art, Shōwa-era design, dance-related motifs, or signed creative kokeshi.
Size: 7 x 7 x 26cm
