Unique Modern Sosaku kokeshi by Yuko Yamazaki - With box

This unique kokeshi doll by Yuko Yamazaki is titled 「手習い」(Te-nurai), which translates to “First Lesson.” In Japan, te-nurai refers to the very first step in learning a traditional art or skill.

The doll portrays a young girl in the quiet moment of practice, holding a fan as she begins to learn traditional Japanese dance. Her serene, closed-eye expression conveys concentration, humility, and the gentle determination of a beginner. The softly rounded form and hand-painted geometric kimono patterns reflect Yamazaki’s distinctive style, combining warmth, balance, and subtle storytelling.

“Te-nurai” beautifully captures the spirit of learning: the grace of repetition, the patience of practice, and the calm joy found in taking one’s very first steps on a cultural path.

Height: 27cm

Weight: 780g

Yuko Yamazaki was born in 1956 in Tokyo, She was the apprentice of master Takashi Yoshida (1948-2007) She has clearly inherited his style, with her own experience and creativity she makes real masterpieces! Yuko already has a lot of awards behind her name! 

Yuko also is a Instructor of the Creative Kokeshi Classroom and she is a Member of Japan Creative Kokeshi Craft Association.

 Award History:

1999 - The National Modern kokeshi Exhibition, Tokyo Shimbun Award.

2003 - National Modern kokeshi Exhibition, Kokeshi crafts association Award.

2004 - The Minister of education award, in the National Modern kokeshi Exhibition (Harunoro).

2010 - The mayor of Maebashi prize, All Japan kokeshi contest 2010.

2012 - All japan kokeshi kojishi competition, Sennan Shinkin Bank prize. 

2018 - The Governor of Gunma Prefecture award, All Japan Kokeshi contest 2018.

2019 - All Japan kokeshi contest National Chamber of comemerce and industry award