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 Originally made as toys and souvenirs for visitors, they symbolize protection and good luck but have also become valued souvenirs representing visited temples and villages.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 in Miyagi Prefecture. The face is framed in a simple black hair style and she has wide, smiling eyes. The body has painted florals (two stylized maple leaves) in bold red and green leaf details - a hallmark of Narugo design. The signature on the bottom reads "Sango" or "Mitsutaka". The head does move freely.

7.5" 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.