Vintage Zao style kokeshi from 1970s made by Ishiyama Kazuo 石山和夫. The beautifully proportioned face is emphasized, and incorporates the Futae-Mabuta, (double lid), eyes; the stylized Naga-Bana, (long ear drop nose), and the Chrysanthemum flower motif on the top of the head and the side of the face. Ishiyama Kazuo was a revered Japanese kokeshi doll maker, celebrated for his profound dedication to preserving and innovating within this traditional craft. Born in 1929 in Miyagi Prefecture, a region central to kokeshi heritage, Ishiyama emerged as a pivotal figure in the post-World War II sosaku (creative) kokeshi movement, which emphasized artistic individuality while honoring historical techniques. Ishiyama’s career spanned decades, during which he became a cultural ambassador for kokeshi craftsmanship. He exhibited widely across Japan and internationally, elevating the doll’s status from folk art to a symbol of Japanese aesthetic philosophy. He passed away in 2017, leaving a legacy that bridges tradition and innovation. His life’s work underscores the dynamic evolution of kokeshi, celebrating its historical roots while inviting artistic exploration. Size: 18 cm tall
