vintage kokeshi patterns

The knowledge of kokeshi craftsmanship has historically been passed from master to apprentice, often as a family trade. While it was imperative to respect the distinctive style and characteristics of the original design, apprentices would inevitably add their own flourishes over time– resulting in a signature expression of both regionality and artistry.

These particular patterns were originally painted by a renowned kokeshi collector and designer, Bunsaku Tachibana, and taken from his limited collection, Kokeshi Moyou Shu, which was published in 1975. Highlighting Tachibana-san’s exemplary artisanship and grasp of Dentō motifs, they would be the ideal addition to any kokeshi collectors home or a splendid standalone showpiece for the everyday art lover.