A vintage Japanese folk toy, charming Shogi Kokeshi (将棋こけし), a handcrafted wooden doll inspired by Shogi (将棋), also known as Japanese chess. This set features two traditional kokeshi-style figures with rounded wooden heads, hand-painted facial features, and colorful accents on their hair. Their bodies are represented by large Shogi game pieces which are boldly decorated with kanji characters in black and red 王將. The dolls are positioned on a Shogi board-style base, reinforcing the connection to the classic Japanese strategy game. A smaller Shogi piece with a braided cord is placed in front, adding an extra decorative and symbolic element. 金将 (きんしょう, Kinshō) means “Gold General.” It is one of the most important pieces in the game. Shogi is a traditional Japanese board game that dates back to the Heian period (794-1185) and is deeply embedded in Japanese culture. It is often associated with strategic thinking, intelligence, and discipline. The red and black 王将 (おうしょう, Ōshō) means “King General” in Shogi. It is the most important piece in the game, equivalent to the King in Western chess. This Shogi Kokeshi set is a rare and whimsical piece that beautifully blends Japanese board game tradition and folk art. Size: 10x8x13.5cm
