A vintage pair of kokeshi dolls originates from Daisen, Japan, and showcases the artistry and natural beauty of traditional Japanese woodcraft. These hand-carved wooden dolls feature distinctively large, bobbled heads with minimalistic yet expressive facial features, a hallmark of kokeshi design. Each doll is crafted from wood with visible natural bark elements left intact on the body, lending a rustic and earthy appeal that is unique to Daisen-style kokeshi.
Daisen (大仙市, Daisen-shi) is a city located in Akita Prefecture in the northern Tohoku region of Japan. It’s known for its rich natural beauty, historical significance, and traditional crafts, including kokeshi dolls. The local variant often includes rustic features such as bark left on the wood and calligraphy, reflecting the area's deep appreciation for nature and poetry.
The left doll represent a boy, with a topknot hairstyle and subtle blue accents. The right doll represent a girl, with painted red hair accessories and a decorative headscarf. Both figures are adorned with delicate calligraphy and brush-painted floral motifs on their torsos, representing seasonal themes. The contrast between the smooth, polished faces and the rough, bark-textured body segments creates a beautiful interplay of refinement and nature.
