Rare vintage Sosaku kokeshi by Masao Watanabe (1917-2007)

This is a handcrafted wooden kokeshi doll by Masao Watanabe, displaying a beautiful blend of rustic texture and minimalist form. The doll stands upright with a smooth rounded head. The face is simple and elegant, with big dark eyes and a tiny red mouth giving it a quiet, gentle expression.

The body is shaped with soft curves and has a textured surface that appears to have layers of paint or natural wood grain with earthy tones—warm browns, creams, and hints of black and red. The coloration and textured surface suggest either a weathered patina or an artistic effect that gives the doll character and depth. In contrast to the softer, organic mid-section, the base of the doll is smooth and polished, showing off the natural color and grain of the wood.

Overall, the piece has a harmonious balance between simplicity and artistic detail, where the understated facial expression and the tactile quality of the body work together to create a sculptural, almost meditative presence.

Masao Watanabe was a Japanese artist renowned for his contemporary interpretations of traditional kokeshi dolls. Born in the mid-20th century in the Tohoku region of Japan—an area famous for its kokeshi craft—Watanabe trained in classic woodworking and folk art. He became known for blending the timeless simplicity of traditional kokeshi forms with more expressive surfaces and textures.

Unlike some artisans who focus strictly on folk motifs, Watanabe’s work often incorporates more abstract, artistic elements, making his kokeshi highly collectible both in Japan and internationally. His dolls retain the essential warmth and personality of kokeshi, while also reflecting a modern sensibility in form and finish. Over his career, he has been celebrated at regional craft shows and exhibitions, and his pieces are appreciated by enthusiasts of both folk art and contemporary wood sculpture.

Height: 25cm

Weight: 640g

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