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 Originally made as toys and souvenirs for visitors, they symbolize protection and good luck but have also become valued souvenirs representing visited temples and villages.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 charming miniature kokeshi features a rustic bark carved body and a hand painted face that gives it the look of a tiny forest guardian. The head is capped with a black and white design marked with a character that translates to "entry" or "inclusion". 

The bottom bears a simple handwritten mark from the maker. 

Small, earthy, and full of personality, this little figure is perfect for collectors who love woodland themed Japanese folk art.

.75" x 2" x .5" - Extra Small 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.