Rare Vintage Creative Kokeshi by Fukuju Yusa (1930-2001)

This elegant kokeshi doll by Fukuju Yusa features a refined, minimalist form with a tall, slender body and a rounded head. The natural wood grain is left largely visible, emphasizing simplicity and craftsmanship. A black painted garment wraps around the upper body, decorated with small red and white accents, while the face is delicately rendered with subtle eyes and a small red mouth.

The overall design reflects the aesthetic of sosaku kokeshi, highlighting individuality, balance, and understated beauty.

Fukuju Yusa was born in Miyagi Prefecture into a prominent family of traditional Narugo kokeshi artists. He found it difficult to separate himself from the dolls produced by his family. While apprenticing under Master Takahashi Sakari in Narugo Spa, Miyagi, he began creating sosaku kokeshi in the late 1950s.

By breaking with family tradition, he developed a distinctive style that quickly gained recognition. At the age of 30, he received the prestigious Prime Minister’s Award in 1960 for his innovative work.

He is particularly known for his beautifully painted depictions of Daruma (Bodhidharma) on the bodies of his dolls, inspired by the image of an Indian sage who lived during the 5th or 6th century AD.

In 1998, he was one of ten kokeshi artists commissioned by the Sony Family Club to create a “Daruma” doll, for which he was awarded the top prize.

Height: 24,5cm

Weight: 340g

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