Sakuo Abe (阿部作雄) was a distinguished Japanese artisan renowned for his work in the Tsuchiyu tradition of kokeshi doll-making. His kokeshi strongly reflect the classic characteristics of the Tsuchiyu lineage, with a simple yet refined design. They are distinguished by their smooth cylindrical bodies and rounded heads, which give them a balanced and elegant appearance. He was born on May 25, 1914, in Tsutaya, Tsuchiyu Onsen, Fukushima Prefecture, the fourth son of Yosaku Abe. Remarkably, Abe began crafting kokeshi dolls after the age of 60, under the mentorship of Sashima Sato. His creations are characterized by the classic Tsuchiyu style, featuring simple yet refined designs with smooth cylindrical bodies and rounded heads. Abe's dedication to preserving traditional techniques has left a lasting impact on the kokeshi artisan community. He passed away on December 20, 2000, at the age of 87. Abe’s kokeshi often feature bold bands of red, black, and purple painted around the body, harmonizing beautifully with the natural wood grain. The facial expressions are subtle yet warm, conveying a sense of tranquility and charm. Size: 18 cm tall
