This is a traditional Yamagata-style kokeshi crafted by Chujiro Kobayashi (小林忠次郎, 1932–1999), an artist highly regarded for his refined execution and deep-rooted connection to the Yamagata kokeshi lineage.
This kokeshi is a wonderful representation of the Yamagata-kei aesthetic. The doll features a softly rounded head adorned with a bold red floral motif—likely a stylized chrysanthemum—framing a delicate, serene face. The expression is characterized by arched brows, long almond-shaped eyes, and a calm demeanor, rendered with Kobayashi’s signature precision.
The body showcases a beautifully balanced arrangement of plum blossom patterns cascading down the torso, framed by vivid red rings at the shoulders and base. This layout emphasizes symmetry and brush control, reflecting Kobayashi's early mastery under the guidance of his father, Seizo Kobayashi, himself a prominent woodcarver. The use of vibrant red hues combined with rhythmic brushwork is characteristic of the Yamagata style, which values both visual warmth and technical finesse.
Kobayashi’s kokeshi are appreciated for their faithful adherence to tradition while also bearing the individual signature of an artist who understood the soul of the craft. This piece, like many of his works, embodies the quiet strength and enduring beauty of Tohoku’s folk art heritage.
