A vintage Naruko kokeshi by Igarashi Isamu (五十嵐勇, 1935–2011) features a rounded head with a serene, smiling face—its eyebrows and eyes arch delicately, and the hair is painted in black with red flower petal accents, conveying both warmth and elegance. The body has a gentle flare, with traditional Naruko-style red ringed borders at the top and base. The surface is adorned with two bold floral motifs—a chrysanthemum and hanging amaranthus—both painted in vivid red with soft green accents. These flowers, hallmarks of Igarashi’s work, bring a seasonal vibrancy and balance to the composition.
Igarashi Isamu born in 1935 in Naruko Onsen, Miyagi Prefecture, Igarashi Isamu was part of a lineage deeply rooted in kokeshi tradition. He was the younger brother of Igarashi Dozen (五十嵐童善), and studied kokeshi-making under his guidance. Isamu began producing his own dolls in the 1950s and developed a style that is soft, expressive, and deeply loyal to traditional Naruko aesthetics. His work is characterized by beautifully balanced forms, rich red pigments, and fine brush control. Throughout his career, Igarashi Isamu remained a respected presence in the kokeshi community, contributing to regional exhibitions and preserving the heritage of his family line. His dolls are prized by collectors for their sweet expressions and painterly floral patterns.
