Matagoro Japanese Kokeshi #1, Carved, 14-1/4"

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NAME: Carved Japanese wooden Matagoro "kokeshi" doll.

MAKER: Matagoro (family name), signed and stamped on back

SIZE: 14-1/4" (36cm)

CONDITION: Many little holes around the neck area, both on the bottom of the head and top of the body, probably eaten by bugs. There are a couple hairline scratches or cuts around the lower right side of the face. Because the doll is carved and all the angles left intact, the flaws are barely noticeable.

NOTES: Dated on the bottom September 24, 1995 by an owner rather than the artist.

The Matagoro doll dates back several hundred years. A woodworker name Matagoro is said to have carved sugi (Japanese cedar) into a doll form. This form is a predecessor to the traditional kokeshi form known today. Sugi is a soft, grainy, lightweight wood considered by most to be unsuitable for kokeshi making but the skills and the style of the first Matagoro have been passed down through many generations. Currently listed is newer pair made by 9th generation artist Kiyomi Matagoro.

This product was added to our catalog on Monday 28 December, 2009.