Exclusive Vintage Sosaku kokeshi by Kato Tatsuo (1940-) 39,5cm!

This exceptional kokeshi doll is a refined work by Kato Tatsuo, one of the most respected contemporary masters of creative (sōsaku) kokeshi. The figure is carved from wood and finished with remarkable precision and restraint.

The doll features a tall, elegant silhouette crowned with a distinctive double-lobed hairstyle, a hallmark of Tatsuo’s sculptural approach. The hair is rendered in deep matte black, framing a serene face with closed eyes and delicately painted red lips, conveying calm, introspection, and quiet dignity.

The kimono is decorated using a striking black and warm ochre palette, inspired by traditional Japanese textile patterns reminiscent of batik or katazome dyeing. Flowing organic motifs create a rhythmic contrast between light and dark, giving the surface both depth and movement. The natural wood grain subtly remains visible beneath the paint, enhancing the tactile and organic character of the piece.

This kokeshi exemplifies Kato Tatsuo’s ability to balance tradition and modernity: minimalist in expression, yet rich in craftsmanship and cultural resonance. It is not merely a decorative object, but a sculptural artwork that embodies harmony, stillness, and timeless Japanese aesthetics.

She is titled (藍の里女) “Ai no Sato onna”, that means a country girl with indigo.

Height: 39,5cm

Weight: 1500g

 Please always take a close look to the pictures to determine the condition of the kokeshi. She as a little scratch at the nose.