Rare Vintage 1960's Japanese Kokeshi by Abe Tsunekichi

This is an original vintage Zao-Takayu style kokeshi, hand-carved and signed by Japanese artisan Abe Tsunekichi (1904-1992) in Japan in the 1960’s. Rare and highly collectable.

Tsunekichi began studying woodworking with his father, carpenter Abe Tokie, at the age of 15, and began making his own kokeshi dolls after the war. Tsunekichi had a truly unique style in the kokeshi world and his work is very easy to recognize, as his kokeshi dolls have a wide-eyed, surprised but friendly appearance. However, his kokeshis are quite hard to find, as they are very popular and sought after by collectors. We’re super lucky we got our hands on this one! We love his slightly confused expression and the hand-painted floral details.

In very good vintage condition. Some patina, wear and fading from age and use.

Height 26 cm

PS. From what we’ve heard, Tsunekichi’s son Abe Shin'ya is now keeping up the tradition by making Abe-style kokeshis.

NOTE ON KOKESHI DOLLS: Kokeshi dolls are Japanese wooden figures crafted by artisans, woodworkers and artists. They represent traditional Japanese craftsmanship that goes as far back as the Edo period (1603 - 1868). Originally simple folk crafts made as toys for children, kokeshi dolls were also used as charms to avoid evil spirits or bad luck. They have since become popular souvenirs and symbols of Japanese culture and tradition, believed to bring good luck, health and happiness to their owners. Each Kokeshi reflects the unique style of their makers and the region where they are made. Vintage kokeshi dolls are sought-after, highly collectable and valued pieces of Japanese folk art. Many vintage dolls are unsigned, because it wasn’t common for artisans to sign their creations until tourism to Japan increased after WWII and Westerners insisted on signatures, as they didn’t know the artists.