Vintage Sasayaki Kokeshi by Sugisaki Taizan

A striking vintage Japanese creative kokeshi titled “Sasayaki” (ささやき / “Whisper”) by Sugisaki Taizan (杉崎泰山).

Dating to approximately the 1960s–1970s, this sculptural work depicts two elongated figures brought together within a series of circular wooden forms.

Standing approximately 30 cm / 11.81 in tall, its extraordinary proportions and minimalist construction make it feel as much like a piece of postwar Japanese sculpture as a kokeshi.

SASAYAKI — “WHISPER”

The work is titled “Sasayaki” (ささやき), meaning “Whisper.”

Two slender figures in contrasting tones stand closely together, connected and surrounded by circular wooden elements.

Depending on the viewing angle, the figures can appear to be whispering, walking together, embracing, or simply standing quietly beside one another.

This ambiguity is one of the most compelling aspects of the design.

SUGISAKI TAIZAN

This work was created by Japanese creative kokeshi artist Sugisaki Taizan (杉崎泰山).

Examples of “Sasayaki” are documented in multiple sizes, with this approximately 30 cm version representing the smaller format.

The design is associated with the development of modern creative kokeshi during the postwar period and is generally dated to around the 1960s–1970s.

DESIGN

The composition is remarkably minimal.

Two elongated wooden figures are reduced almost entirely to oval heads and narrow vertical bodies.

Rather than painted facial features or elaborate decoration, the design relies on proportion, contrasting wood tones, curved wooden rings, negative space, and the natural surface of the material.

The circular elements bring the two figures together visually and create a sense of movement around an otherwise extremely restrained composition.

Viewed today, the work has a distinctly modernist quality.

SCULPTURAL OBJECT

Although created within the tradition of creative kokeshi, “Sasayaki” works particularly well as an abstract wooden sculpture.

Its height, narrow footprint, contrasting tones, and strong vertical silhouette make it particularly suitable for a contemporary interior.

It can be displayed as a standalone object or alongside Japanese ceramics, baskets, lacquerware, and other collected works.

SIZE

Height:
Approx. 30 cm / 11.81 in

Width:
Approx. 5 cm / 1.97 in

Artist:
Sugisaki Taizan (杉崎泰山)

Title:
Sasayaki (ささやき / “Whisper”)

Type:
Modern / Creative Kokeshi

Material:
Wood

Origin:
Japan

Estimated period:
Circa 1960s–1970s

CONDITION

Good vintage condition.

There are some areas of discoloration or staining, along with minor surface wear consistent with age.

No major structural damage has been noted.

Please refer carefully to the photographs for the exact condition, including the areas of discoloration.

Natural variations in the wood grain, coloration, and surface are part of the character of this vintage wooden work.

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