Vintage Gunma Kokeshi by Ryoka Aoki, Japan, 1980s

This adorable kokeshi doll is crafted by the renowned artist Aoki Ryoka.

Dimensions: height 22 cm, diameter 12 cm.

This kokeshi features a 'classic' Gunma design, with her kimono adorned in a colorful flower pattern intricately engraved into the wood.

Aoki-san is a prominent female kokeshi artist who leads her own Kokeshi company, employing mainly female artisans.

The wooden doll is signed at the bottom and is in good vintage condition.

Kokeshi are traditional Japanese wooden dolls with a simple cylindrical shape, a rounded head, often decorated with hand-painted flower motifs. Originating in northern Japan, they are crafted from fruit trees, usually cherry wood. The charm of kokeshi lies in their simplicity, making them valuable representations of folk art, cherished as collectibles and decorative pieces. Each region in Japan has its unique style, resulting in a variety of designs and color schemes.

Kokeshi dolls hold symbolic meanings and are often given as gifts, enhancing their popularity in Japanese culture and beyond.