Cute vintage Sosaku kokeshi

This is a charming and character-filled Sosaku (Creative) Kokeshi, identified by the specific details and artistry of the maker, often differing from strictly traditional regional forms.

Key Features

• Design: This doll represents a stylized female figure, perhaps a maiden or geisha, given the elaborate hair decoration.

• Hair and Detail: Her hair is sculpted in a complex, polished black topknot bun (a style sometimes referred to as momo-ware in stylized dolls). It is adorned with a prominent red hairpin (kanzashi) detail and a decorative medallion on the bun itself.

• Expression: She has a uniquely simple and endearing face, with small, expressive eyes, brows, and a nose. A singular red painted mark below her eyes gives her a unique, almost tearful or blush-like expression.

• Attire: Her dark, green-stained wooden body is decorated with simple star-shaped or floral motifs (asano-ha or star patterns), and she wears a small red accessory (likely a stylized obi or sash front) on her body.

• Origin/Mark: On the reddish-stained base, there is a distinct golden label with Japanese text. The characters read 「宝川温泉」 (Takaragawa Onsen). Takaragawa Onsen is a famous hot spring in Gunma Prefecture. This indicates that the doll was likely produced or sold as a specific souvenir (miyage) representing that region.

This piece is a classic example of a creative kokeshi, combining skilled woodworking, traditional motifs, and regional identification.

Height: 13cm

Weight: 100g

Please look carefully at the pictures to determine the condition of the kokeshi.