A vintage sōsaku kokeshi doll crafted by Yanagiyama (柳山) of Shioyasu Lacquerware Studio (塩安漆器工房), celebrated for their fusion of traditional lacquer artistry with kokeshi doll aesthetics.
The body of this lacquered kokeshi is adorned with a vibrant and detailed depiction of 能登半島 (Noto Peninsula), specifically showcasing one of its most iconic cultural events, the Kiriko Festival (切籠祭り). The dramatic festival scene, complete with illuminated paper lantern floats and energetic figures, is rendered in vivid gold, red, and green tones over a high-gloss black lacquer base, reflecting the brilliance of traditional urushi (漆) techniques.
The doll's expressive face and smooth, round head exude the elegance typical of contemporary lacquer kokeshi, while the detailed painting on the cylindrical body speaks to the rich folk heritage of Ishikawa Prefecture.
About Shioyasu Lacquerware Studio (塩安漆器工房) with a long tradition rooted in Wajima-nuri and Kanazawa lacquer, Shioyasu Lacquerware Studio applies these techniques not only to household wares but also to kokeshi dolls. Their approach is to honor Japan's cultural legacy while reinterpreting it in new forms, such as this modern lacquer kokeshi, making them both collectible and deeply representative of regional craft.
