Rare Vintage Creative Kokeshi By Kahei Katase (1922-2015)

This kokeshi doll by Kahei Katase features a refined and minimalist design characteristic of traditional Japanese craftsmanship. The doll has a smooth, rounded head with delicately painted facial features—narrow, gently curved eyes and fine brows—expressing a calm, serene mood. A subtle touch of black hair detailing crowns the head.

Its elongated cylindrical body is finished in deep blue and decorated with warm, circular motifs in natural wood tones, creating a striking contrast. The simple yet elegant composition highlights the natural grain of the wood, reflecting Katase’s understated aesthetic and attention to balance and form.

Born in the town of Hakone, Katase-san won the first Prime Minister’s Award in 1954 at the ‘All Nippon Kokeshi Competition’. Along with many of his fellow Sosaku artists, Katase-san was a soldier, and perhaps turned to creative Kokeshi-making to assuage the rigors of a long war.

Height: 24,5cm

Weight: 220g

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