Vintage Japanese Kokeshi Doll – 47cm Exhibition Piece by Haruo Satō (1979)

Vintage Japanese Kokeshi Doll – 47cm Exhibition Piece by Haruo Satō (1979)

This bold and sculptural 47cm Kokeshi doll was crafted by renowned artisan Haruo Satō (佐藤春雄) and exhibited at the 1979 Miyagi Prefecture Specialty Showcase. Hand-turned from dogwood and Japanese maple, it features stacked form segments with vivid ochre, red, and black hand-painted detailing.

Inscribed with full provenance on the base, this piece is a rare example of commemorative folk artistry. Minor crack to base consistent with age.

Inscription Breakdown (translated from Japanese):

• 昭和54年3月25日 – Showa 54 (1979), March 25
• 宮城県の名産産展 – Exhibition of Specialty Products of Miyagi Prefecture
• 頭 みずき 腹 いたや – Head: Mizuki (Dogwood), Body: Itaya (Japanese maple)
• 佐藤春雄 作 – Made by Haruo Satō (佐藤春雄)

Key Features:

• Artist: Satō Haruo (佐藤春雄), a known craftsman associated with Naruko-style dolls
• Origin: Miyagi Prefecture, Japan
• Date: March 25, 1979
• Material: Two wood types — dogwood head, maple body
• Design:
  
• Stylized face and fringe
• Deep reds, ochres, and blacks in sweeping feather-like motifs
• Tiered body form (distinct from typical straight-body Naruko dolls)

Exclusively at La La Vintage – Semaphore.