Japan at its best
Friday September 3rd 2010

Ninja and Star Wars, Best of Kokeshi

The Kokeshi doll has long been a favourite of mine. I have a small collection of the more traditional kind of Kokeshi that I have lovingly kept well dusted over the past 25 years.

But I was most impressed to find that others have more exciting collections than mine – look at these fabulous ninja kokeshi.

Ninja Kokeshi
Ninja Kokeshi

Do you have a favourite Kokeshi ? Take a look at these – the best of ninja, Star Wars, traditional styles or Star Trek. Who would have thought kokeshi dolls could be dressed up in such a variety of costumes!

I am torn between the star wars and ninja kokeshi
I am torn between the star wars and ninja kokeshi

The style and character of the Kokeshi doll depends on the region that you visit in Japan. But typically they are very simply designed and have the common trait of a cylindrical body with no limbs and a round head. These kokeshi have built modern designs around a timeless wooden theme.

Kappa Style Kokeshi
Kappa Style Kokeshi

This one is rather unusual. It is a kappa in kokeshi style. (A kappa is a water sprite found in Japanese folktales.)

This carving is a modern style kokeshi painted with a design that is seasonally American in inspiration.

Halloween Kokshi
Halloween Kokshi

This is more the traditional type of kokeshi that you find in Japan.

Kokeshi Traditional Wooden Carving
Kokeshi Traditional Wooden Carving

Today, the Kokeshi are a popular souvenir of Japan expressing traditional folk art, but in years gone by, the wooden hand made kokeshi dolls were a cheaper alternative to the more expensive porcelain dolls. The kokeshi doll was particular popular with the children of farmers and were originally found in northern Japan. The wood used to make a kokeshi varies but quite often cherry and dogwood are used. The wood has to season for between one to five years before it can be used to craft a kokeshi doll.

This kokeshi shows how the baby was traditionally carried in Japan. I bought it because it reminded me of the drama series Oshin.

One of my kokeshi dolls
One of my kokeshi dolls

These dolls have started on a picnic and invited some Russian friends. Interesting comparison of the traditional folk art. Similar shapes but the Russians placed their dolls inside each other. Also the art work is very different. Nevertheless, good to see the contrast side by side.

picnic sushi and dolls
picnic sushi and dolls

This one is my nephew’s favourite!

Wow ! This is so cool!
Wow ! This is so cool!

But for the Star Trek fans – these are ultra kool kokeshi!

Best of Kokeshi with Star Trek
Best of Kokeshi with Star Trek

These Kokeshi are lovely.

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Added: August 24th, 2009
Author: kimonobox
Category: Cultural Box

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