Vintage Sosaku Kokeshi by Yoshida Saiho

A distinctive vintage Japanese Sosaku Kokeshi by Yoshida Saiho (吉田斉穂), an artist associated with Japan’s postwar creative kokeshi movement.

Standing approximately 14 cm / 5.51 in tall, this small work has an exceptionally sculptural composition, combining an elongated teardrop-shaped wooden body, broad circular headpiece, cord details, projecting elements, and a geometric wooden base.

YOSHIDA SAIHO

Yoshida Saiho (吉田斉穂) is documented as a Japanese modern / creative kokeshi artist.

His name appears among the artists featured in the 1969 Japanese publication “Kokeshi: Its Tradition and Creation,” which documented important makers working within the development of modern creative kokeshi.

This particular piece bears the artist’s signature on the reverse.

DESIGN

This work moves considerably beyond the familiar cylindrical silhouette of traditional kokeshi.

The dramatically enlarged circular headpiece appears to float above a tiny face, while the rounded body displays the natural growth rings and coloration of the wood as an important part of the composition.

Braided cord and small projecting wooden elements introduce additional texture and dimensionality.

The combination of geometric construction, exposed wood grain, dark burned tones, and asymmetrical details gives the piece a distinctly modernist character.

SCULPTURAL KOKESHI

Sosaku Kokeshi — often translated as “creative kokeshi” — allowed individual artists greater freedom in form, carving, surface treatment, and expression.

This example is particularly compelling as a small sculptural object rather than simply a decorative doll.

Its compact scale and strong silhouette make it suitable for display on a shelf, desk, cabinet, or alongside Japanese ceramics, lacquerware, baskets, and other collected objects.

SIZE

Height:
Approx. 14 cm / 5.51 in

Width:
Approx. 4.5 cm / 1.77 in

Artist: Yoshida Saiho (吉田斉穂)
Type: Sosaku / creative kokeshi
Material: Wood
Marking: Artist signature on reverse
Origin: Japan
Period: Vintage

CONDITION

Very good vintage condition.

There are some light surface rubs and minor signs of age, but no noticeable major damage.

The piece remains clean and displays beautifully.

Please refer carefully to the photographs for the exact condition.

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

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