Vintage Creative Kokeshi By Takahashi Akinori (1957-)

This Sosaku (creative) kokeshi by the master Takahashi Akinori (1957-). This doll showcases his signature ability to blend delicate floral artistry with the smooth, natural form of the wood.

Artistic Highlights

• The Bush Clover (Hagi) Motif: The body is decorated with a trailing floral design, most likely Japanese Bush Clover, a classic symbol of autumn. The use of small purple-pink dots for the blossoms and soft green leaves demonstrates Hashime's fine-tuned brushwork, reminiscent of traditional Japanese ink wash painting.

• Signature Face & Features: The face is typical of Hashime’s serene style, with narrow, arched eyes and a tiny red mouth. The head also features subtle red line-work along the top and sides, mimicking traditional hair ornaments or ribbons.

• Elegance in Simplicity: Like your other dolls, this one prioritizes a minimalist aesthetic. The tall, slender body and rounded head are perfectly balanced, allowing the vertical floral design to lead the eye upward.

• A Master's Touch: Takahashi Hashime’s work is highly collectible because he brought the sophistication of a silk painter to the medium of wood. This "floral series" is one of his most beloved and recognizable styles.

Takahashi Hashime began his career as a fine artist and painter, known for his colorful designs and distinctive brushwork. He was born in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture—the birthplace of traditional Kokeshi. His artistic background also includes work as a Yuzen silk–kimono dyeing craftsman, which explains why kimono motifs feature so prominently in all of his dolls.

He received multiple awards in annual Kokeshi competitions, including the prestigious Prime Minister’s Award, the highest honor given to Sosaku Kokeshi artists. His work is instantly recognizable for its unique forms and meticulous details.

Height: 18,5cm

Weight: 180g

Please always take a close look to the pictures to determine the condition of the kokeshi.