Vintage Japanese Kokeshi by Kon Akira

A distinctive vintage Japanese wooden figure by Kon Akira (今見), titled “Shinobi Dochu” (忍び道中).

The piece features an unusually elongated cylindrical body with a small figure emerging from the top, accompanied by a bold circular wooden element with hand-painted Japanese characters.

Its highly stylized proportions and graphic construction give the piece a remarkably modern and sculptural appearance.

KON AKIRA

This piece is identified as a work by Kon Akira (今見).

Rather than following the familiar rounded form associated with many traditional kokeshi, this work uses an elongated body, simplified facial features, painted geometric details, and an unconventional layered construction.

SHINOBI DOCHU

The piece is titled “Shinobi Dochu” (忍び道中).

Its unusual composition gives the figure a playful sense of narrative while remaining highly abstract in form.

The combination of exposed wood grain, restrained painted details, Japanese lettering, and the narrow vertical silhouette makes it particularly compelling as a small Japanese folk-art object.

DISPLAY

Beyond its identity as a Japanese doll, the piece can be appreciated as a small wooden sculpture.

Its narrow proportions make it particularly suitable for display on a shelf, desk, cabinet, or alongside ceramics and other Japanese craft objects.

SIZE

Height:
Approx. 14.5 cm / 5.71 in

Width:
Approx. 4 cm / 1.57 in

Artist: Kon Akira (今見)
Title: Shinobi Dochu (忍び道中)
Material: Wood
Type: Japanese wooden doll / folk art object
Origin: Japan
Period: Vintage

CONDITION

Very good vintage condition.

There is no noticeable major damage.

Minor signs of age and surface variation may be present, consistent with a vintage wooden handcrafted object.

Natural variations in wood grain, surface, painting, and construction are part of the character of the piece.

Please refer carefully to the photographs for the exact condition.

This is a one-of-a-kind vintage piece. The photographs show the actual item you will receive.