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Japanese Kokeshi Doll
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 Vintage Japanese lovely girl kokeshi doll 1206061  US $7.00
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Here are some more information for Japanese Kokeshi Doll:
Synonymous with Japanese culture, kokeshi dolls have been produced in Japan since the Japanese Edo period (1600-1868). They were first made by Kiji-shi (wood artisans) in the Miyagi Prefecture in north Japan. These artisans specialised in producing household utensils for the local people but began making small wooden dolls to sell to tourists who came to visit the hot springs in the country.
Over time these hot springs became popular with visitors and grew into spa resorts. With this influx of tourists demand for the dolls increased and production grew until they were eventually being made across other spa areas in the T
Tahoku Region.
An interesting fact is that the dolls were originally known by many different names. It wasn't until the All-Japan Kokeshi Exhibition in Naruko Onsen, August 1939 that the term 'kokeshi' was agreed upon to become the official name of the dolls.
Kokeshi dolls are handmade from wood, have a simple trunk and an enlarged head. Some are painted with fine lines to define facial features. These simple designs have been passed down through many generations of kokeshi artisans and those familiar with the dolls are able to ascertain the towns and cities from where individual dolls are produced.
Originally the kokeshi dolls took a simple form and long cylindrical bodies. Known as the traditional kokeshi, these dolls featured no arms or legs and had rounded heads. Their kimonos were either carved or painted with an array of different designs which all tended to be simple. They were covered with a layer of wax to help protect them from aging and also to give them a nice sheen.
Eventually the traditional kokeshi designs were an inspiration for a new breed of 'creative kokeshi'. Developed after the Second World War these dolls feature more complex designs. Many of the dolls have hair, wear more elaborately designed kimonos, feature more expression on their faces and come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. The creative kokeshi dolls can be found in all Japanese cities however, the majority come from the Gunma Prefecture.
Kokeshi dolls are made from a variety of different woods but the majority are made from cherry or mizuko. Cherry kokeshi dolls are distinguished for their dark appearance, whilst mizuko kokeshi dolls are lighter in colour. Regardless of the wood the kokeshi dolls are made from the wood is left to season for up to five years before it is used to make the dolls. This ensures the wood has matured and the kokeshi dolls will be made as perfect as possible by the artisan!
Today, the kokeshi doll is considered a folk art in Japan. They are highly regarded around the country so much so that since 1954 the Prime Minister of Japan has awarded an annual prize for the best creative kokeshi design.
What started life as a small ornamental doll sold to the odd tourist has grown into a huge industry which now symbolises Japanese culture. And, although the demand for the dolls has increased the craftsmanship that goes into making them has not deteriorated; the dolls are not mass produced on production lines but are still made by hand from artisans that have learned the craft from past generations.
Gary Mullen, supplier of Kokeshi Dolls.
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Japanese Gifts: Great Little Details for Everyone!
Are you interested in giving Japanese gifts? Many people love the Japanese culture and will be delighted with a present based on their traditions. For example, you could give a Kokeshi doll as a traditional Japanese gift, or you can give a Pinky Street to any anime fan. Most of the famous anime series like Neon Genesis Evangelion, Gundam and others have many figures available.
Besides giving a Japanese gift you could provide some background on the Japanese traditions that surround the act of giving a present. In Japan, the action of giving a present is not mere courtesy, but it is considered a social obligation in many situations. If you are given a gift, you have to give back another gift. Japan has a unique system full of rules that must be followed to ensure that the other person will not be offended.
Why Are You Giving Me This Gift?
Every Japanese gift has an intention behind. These are the most common reasons for giving a present:
Temiyage (Thank You Gift)
The Temiyage are really important gifts in Japan because gratitude should not only be expressed verbally but also with a thank you gift. Japanese dolls are great thank you present because they are also called friendship dolls, because it is a nice way to tell a loved one that you care. The Temiyage do not have to be expensive, it can be a simple detail.
Omiyage (Souvenir Gifts)
The omiyage are traditional Japanese gifts that are given when a person travels and comes back home. They are gifts bought from the native place. If you have the chance to travel to Japan, you could bring back home an original Japanese doll as an omiyage.
Oseibo and Ochugen (Bonus Gifts)
Twice a year, close friends, relatives and co-workers give a gift to each other. The first one given on June is called Ochugen, while the second one given on December is called Oseibo. Many people select these months because they receive a bonus during these periods.
Japanese Gifts: a Beautiful Tradition
The Japanese tradition of giving a present is so beautiful because it is not centered on the gift by itself, but rather on the art of giving it. For example, if you are going to give a Japanese gift do it with both hands, because this gesture suggests intimacy or sincerity toward the other person. You don't have to give a luxurious gift to make someone happy. Give a Japanese gift to someone that cherishes the Japanese culture and you will certainly see a smile on their face.
About the Author
Japanese dolls are wonderful Japanese gifts. Learn all about them: The Complete Japanese Dolls guide
Where can I buy Japanese Kokeshi dolls in New York city?
not sure but you can call them:
Visit The Kimono House at 131 Thompson Street, between Houston and Prince (212 505-0232). Their staff, lead by Yumiko, the manager, are all Japanese and are happy to answer your questions.
or this.....
Takashimaya Basics: Takashimaya Address: 693 Fifth Ave (54th Street)
Closest Subways to Takashimaya: E or V at Fifth Ave/53rd St. Phone: 212-350-0100
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