This listing is for a vintage Japanese kokeshi doll.  These are traditional wooden dolls dating back to the late Edo period (early 1800s). Originally made as toys and souvenirs for visitors, they symbolize protection and good luck but have also become valued souvenirs representing visited temples and villages. 

This is a lathe-turned wooden kokeshi doll that features a small face with topknot bun wearing a chrysanthemum kimono. The kimono is tied with a yellow corded knot with an orange painted obi underneath. On the bottom it is stamped with a red hanko seal which were often used instead of handwritten signatures as kokeshi became more popular as souvenirs. 

6" x 3" - Medium Size

Kokeshi are often a simple cylindrical body, a round head that sometimes bobbles and a painted face or carved patterns with a serene expression. There are two styles - traditional (dento) and creative (shingata) which emerged after WWII to show more freedom in design, color, and themes. Click here to learn more about this wonderful Japanese folk art.