These are Donko Kokeshi dolls from Hyūga (日向), a region in Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan. Donko Kokeshi are a sub-style of traditional Kokeshi characterized by their squat, rounded shapes and gently tapering heads, often adorned with painted hairlines that resemble a helmet or cap.
Both dolls exhibit classic Donko features round faces with wide, circular black eyes and a tiny red dot for a mouth, lending them a serene and innocent appearance. The dark, helmet-like hair is a hallmark of Donko styling. Each doll has slightly different top knots or detailing, adding individual character. The painted hairline is distinctively jagged, another feature typical of the style.
The bodies are adorned with vibrant hand-painted seasonal motifs and Japanese calligraphy, including natural elements like bamboo leaves, plum blossoms, and poetic inscriptions or local proverbs, reflecting traditional aesthetics.
Though many Donko Kokeshi are unsigned, they are occasionally attributed to respected artists such as Watanabe Masao or Sato Norio, blurring the line between traditional folk craft (dentō) and creative expression (sōsaku).
