Rare Find Vintage Japanese Sosaku Kokeshi Entitled: “aki | Autumn” By Sato, Kouson (a.k.a . Kimura) Shop Now [VaBuivOF]

Dimensions: 14-1/2”h

Offered is an exceptionally painted doll celebrating Autumn. This doll show a mastery of painterly designs, with a three- dimensional appearance of her exquisitely and beautifully stylized multi-colored fall leaves and graphics, on lathe-turning of the natural wood. The sensitive turning of the wood form is additionally meant to complement both a tapered and undulating form. The face is simply detailed, beginning with her pulled back ‘Bob’ hairstyle with bangs introducing a new look during this time period that was more tailored and suitable for the Japanese face. A ‘Mage’, (topknot) finishes this doll, all with black hair, expressive eyes, without eyebrows, and an expressive red mouth. All in all, Kouson-san’s 

painterly qualities are exceptional. The doll is signed on the bottom and published in Sosaku Kokeshi: Celebrating the Major Artists of the Creative Movement, 2022 by Evans & Wolf. 

Condition: Superb outstandingly exceptional, impressive, and beautiful condition. No chips, cracks, breaks, missing pieces or restoration, and retains its original details and finish. The piece meets all the standards of the collectible Sosaku Kokeshi. 

For additional information on the artist/family go to: https://mingeiarts.com/collections/artisan-woodworker-sato-kouson-a-k-a-komura

Sato-san has never wanted biographical information published, hence researchers have not found any details about her life. What is known is that she is one of the few female creative Kokeshi makers, and is recognized as an accomplished artist. Kouson-san worked out of her studio in Fukushima-ken, Kuwaori-machi. This was in the heart of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami devastation area of Fukushima Prefecture. Creative works in her studio were lost. She retired soon after.