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 Originally made as toys and souvenirs for visitors, they symbolize protection and good luck but have also become valued souvenirs representing visited temples and villages.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 traditional-style kokeshi is a classic example of the Narugo style from Miyagi Prefecture. The face has a gentle expression, with arched brows and faint smile - warm and peaceful. The body is painted with florals in bold red-orange and accented with green - a hallmark of Narugo design.

The signature on the bottom reads "Katsuichi" - several Narugo artisans carried this name in the post-war period when kokeshi became more collectible.

7" x 2" - 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.