This elegant Sōsaku Kokeshi titled “Hinagiku” (ひな菊 – Daisy) by Aoki Ryōka (青木蓼華), created in 1978, beautifully reflects the artist’s refined sensitivity to form, seasonality, and gentle emotion.
The figure features a softly rounded head with delicately painted closed eyes, conveying a sense of quiet introspection and calm. A small, simple hair ornament rests at the crown, adding a subtle touch of charm. The body is gracefully shaped, allowing the warm natural wood grain to show through a softly aged patina, enhancing its wabi-sabi character.
Adorning the surface are hand-painted daisy blossoms, rendered in soft whites and muted reds. These flowers—symbols of innocence and quiet beauty—are thoughtfully arranged across the body, creating a gentle rhythm that complements the figure’s serene posture. One arm is subtly suggested, holding a single bloom close, reinforcing the intimate and poetic feeling of the piece.
Aoki Ryōka is widely recognized for her artistic excellence, having received numerous prestigious honors including the Prime Minister’s Award and the Yellow Ribbon Medal of Honor. Her works have also been collected by the Japanese Imperial family, reflecting her esteemed position within the world of sōsaku kokeshi. Even into her later years, she has continued to create works that embody elegance, restraint, and a deep respect for tradition.
This piece stands as a graceful example of her lifelong dedication—a harmonious blend of simplicity, femininity, and quiet emotional depth, capturing the fleeting beauty of nature in a timeless wooden form.
Size: 8 x 8 x 18cm
