This Yajirō-style kokeshi is the work of renowned artisan Koichi Kamata (鎌田孝市), one of the most celebrated masters of the Yajirō tradition. Crafted from natural wood and adorned with vivid floral patterns in red and green, this doll reflects the refined craftsmanship and vibrant palette characteristic of Yajirō kokeshi—a lineage rooted in Shiroishi, Miyagi Prefecture, and known for its bold visual identity.
Kamata apprenticed under his father, Kamakichi Kamata, a pivotal figure in shaping the Yajirō style. From an early age, Koichi inherited both the technical expertise and artistic spirit of this lineage. By the 1960s, he had established himself as a leading figure in the kokeshi-making world, admired for his precision, symmetrical design, and beautifully rendered brushwork.
The doll features elegant facial features, framed by traditional side hair and expressive eyes, set beneath a concentric ring pattern on the head—another hallmark of the Yajirō form. The floral decoration, wrapping around the cylindrical body, is executed with balance and rhythm, displaying Kamata’s mastery of both carving and painting.
Kamata continued to refine and transmit his craft throughout his life, mentoring younger artisans and ensuring the preservation of the Yajirō tradition. His dolls are highly regarded by collectors for their strong aesthetic presence, technical excellence, and deep connection to Japan’s folk art heritage.
He passed away in 2004, but his work continues to inspire and embody the spirit of traditional kokeshi craftsmanship.
Size: 11 x 11 x 35cm
