About Naruko Kokeshi

Exploring Kokeshi for a Contemporary Lifestyle

Kokeshi has had a rather ambivalent relationship with its own tradition. From one perspective, in the course of 20th century, kokeshi was sublimated into a genre of recognized traditional craft. On the other hand, the whole process “froze” the way it is in many senses, leading to the current challenges the whole industry is facing— one of which is the polarization of the straightforward traditional and the popular culture inspired. As a family who has made kokeshi for five generations, it is our goal to pursue kokeshis that are both firmly rooted in tradition and blend well into contemporary life. It is precisely for this reason that the international market means so much to us. It is more than the simple expansion of the market, for the contemporary world is inevitably an international one. It is our utmost hope that this local tradition will regain its dynamism and contribute to enriching your everyday life.

 

 

Simplicity and Tenderness that Embody Harsh and Blissful Nature

A tradition nurtured by harsh winters, blessings of hot springs, and uncompromising craftspeople, kokeshi—a type of simple, traditional wooden doll—is thought to have originated as a children’s toy during the mid-19th century in the hot-springs communities deep within the mountains of today’s Miyagi Prefecture. In the mid-20th century, people “discovered” kokeshi, and the emergence of collectors transformed them from everyday toys to a coveted treasure for all generations. With their strong tie to the mountainous forest, stark simplicity, and gentle expressions, many describe kokeshi as the embodiment of the Tohoku region, making perfect handmade gifts for a variety of occasions such as birthdays, house warmings, weddings, and births.

 

Crafting Kokeshi

1. Drying Wood

At Sakurai Kokeshi, we dry raw wood for around 18 months to ensure that the wood achieves the right balance of dryness and whiteness. The process starts with peeling the bark by hand; this is done in the middle of winter, when the air is least humid.

2. Carving

Selected wood pieces are put on a potter’s wheel and carved into the form of a kokeshi using a variety of tools. In Naruko, kokeshi craftspeople still carve kokeshi using the traditional method, in which the head and body are carved separately. These pieces are then joined together skillfully while spinning.

3. Drawing

A kokeshi is given life through the lively brushwork of a craftsperson. The face loosely reflects that of a child, and the body traditionally features some form of chrysanthemum, which is an auspicious symbol. All our kokeshi designs are drawn by hand, so every piece is unique.