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 Originally made as toys and souvenirs for visitors, they symbolize protection and good luck but have also become valued souvenirs representing visited temples and villages.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 has a soft smiling expression, arched brows and black brushstoke hair. The body is painted florals in bold red and green leaf details framed by simple red bands at the top and bottom - a hallmark of Narugo design. The signature on the bottom reads "Okichi saku" which means "Made by Okichi".

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.