This Togatta-style Kokeshi was crafted by Kikuji Sato (佐藤菊治, 1895–1970), a respected traditional kokeshi artisan from Aone Onsen (青根温泉), Miyagi Prefecture, in Japan’s Tōhoku region.
The doll features a large, rounded head with delicately painted black hair, red decorative accents, gracefully arched eyebrows, and narrow, expressive eyes. Its serene, slightly playful expression reflects the distinctive character of traditional Togatta kokeshi.
Kikuji Sato born on May 18, 1895, in Aone Onsen, Kikuji Sato became an independent woodturner during the Taishō period (1912–1926), establishing a lathe workshop in his home. Despite economic difficulties, he remained dedicated to traditional woodworking and kokeshi production.
His craftsmanship gained recognition among collectors, and he appeared in the 1930 publication Japanese Folk Toys, Eastern Section. Following World War II, he experienced renewed success in kokeshi production, working alongside his sons Kenji and Tadashi. In 1948, he modernised his workshop by adopting a powered lathe.
Beyond his own creations, Sato contributed to preserving traditional techniques by teaching younger artisans, including Sato Hironori, to whom he passed on his painting skills around 1953.
Kikuji Sato passed away on May 21, 1970, leaving behind an important legacy in the history of Aone and Togatta kokeshi craftsmanship.
Size: 10 x 10 x 36cm
