Kaika (flowery) gilded

The followers of the onsen (thermal springs) of the Tohoku had the habit of buying them to offer them as souvenir. These small dolls were also a source of revenue for local populations during the winter months of farming activities.

The most appreciated kokeshis are made in pagoda dogwood, renowned for its hardness and strength. Versions are also available in cherry wood. Their traditional composition is simple: a small round head on a simple trunk.

The surface, perfectly smoothed, is delicately painted with a brush. The finesse of features surprises. The finish by applying a polished and lusted wax layer gives it all its characteristic shine. In the seventeenth century, they mainly represented children and sported longitudinal forms.

Contemporary versions are less slender, rounded and are available in animal versions, elderly, or more fanciful, signs of the zodiac, characters or popular creatures. The reason is simple, they are coveted collectors as much for their aesthetics and for the virtues that are lent to them: Happiness, Health ...

A must of Japanese folk art.