This is ae traditional Naruko kokeshi crafted by Masumi Matsuda (松田真澄), a skilled artisan born in 1959 in Miyagi Prefecture. Known for upholding the classic aesthetics of the Naruko lineage, Matsuda’s work stands out for its harmonious balance of form and decoration.
This piece features the signature Naruko characteristics: a gently rounded head with a refined facial expression and a cylindrical body with vibrant hand-painted floral motifs in deep red and green tones. The flowers are elegantly rendered, showcasing Matsuda’s steady hand and careful attention to detail.
Masumi Matsuda (松田真澄), born in 1959, is a respected kokeshi artist working in the Naruko tradition from Miyagi Prefecture. Coming from a lineage of kokeshi makers, she trained under seasoned craftsmen and eventually developed her own distinguished style rooted in tradition but marked by clean, elegant lines and balanced design.
Her works are celebrated for their expressive floral decorations and tranquil facial expressions, often using darker pigments for a dignified, composed impression. Matsuda continues to create kokeshi in the Naruko region, preserving one of Japan’s most cherished folk art traditions while subtly infusing her own artistic sensibilities. Her dolls are widely appreciated by collectors for their craftsmanship and quiet charm.
