Today, the Kokeshi is the most celebrated of the traditional folk arts of Japan, and the most widely collected. This creatively bound publication attempts an almost impossible task: that of presenting the history, theories, and beliefs regarding the origins of the making of the Kokeshi doll. Today, this wooden, lathe-turned and hand-painted doll is a popular example of the Japanese culture and their society. This 216 page manuscript (6.5625" x 11") with over 180 full-color images discusses the history of the Kokeshi, the original artists of the ten traditional styles, and many of the contemporary artists producing versions of this most unusual folk art. Relationships between selected traditional and 20th century creative pieces from award-winning master craftsmen are shown and illustrated in full color. To complete this publication, artists¿ marks, signatures and places of origin are illustrated along with well-known stories about the dolls. In addition, a glossary of terms is included. This book is a wonderful visual reference for the collector or individual who has an appreciation for Japanese crafts. Better yet, it is the only book currently in print in English surveying the subject of the Kokeshi doll. This unique book would be a significant addition to any folk art or toy collector¿s library and is strongly recommended to retail suppliers of art books in print. This text refers to the only English book in print on the subject. --Juichi

An inside look at kokeshi dolls: from the skilled woodworkers behind their design to their important cultural significance. Kokeshi are the simple and charming traditional Japanese dolls characterized by their cylindrical shape and lack of arms and legs. Historically made as children's toys in Japan's northern region of Tohoku, they have now become a popular collector's item and have even inspired famous architects and artists. In this visual guide, readers will find: An overview of the different types of dolls How kokeshi dolls are crafted, including information on tools and woods used Interviews with leading kokeshi craftspeople worldwide Detailed information about both traditional dolls and the modern ones being crafted today An exploration of the cultural significance of kokeshi dolls--both historically and for the areas of northern Japan that rebuilt themselves after their region was decimated by an earthquake and tsunami in 2011 A guide to visiting Japan's kokeshi regions Information on how to buy the dolls--either directly from Japanese artisans or stockists worldwide Filled with artist interviews, gorgeous photos and firsthand travel experience, author Manami Okazaki has created a book to be enjoyed by all--from serious collectors to woodcrafters, interior designers, architects, armchair travelers and anyone with an interest in Japanese culture and travel.

Kokeshi are traditional, artisanal Japanese dolls, characterized by their lack of arms or legs. They have become iconic; they reflect simple Japanese aesthetic sensibilities with their simple, elegant and minimalist designs. Kokeshi looks at this culture in depth. It profiles 23 artisans in the remote hot spring villages where they are made and highlights many aesthetic theories and sensibilities that are prevalent in contemporary design, even today. With rare interviews, it will delight fans of wooden crafts and Japanese culture.

Japanese Dolls: The Fascinating World of Ningyo, is a wealth of information for Japanese art collectors, Asian doll collectors and doll enthusiasts of all levels and interests. Full of beautiful photographs, the book details 18 kinds of widely collected, obtainable and affordable, antique and vintage dolls and figurines (ningyo). Author Alan Scott Pate--the leading American expert on Japanese dolls--writes in illuminating detail about the traditions of each type of doll and shares practical tips on how to collect this amazing Japanese art form. Included in this guide to Japanese ningyo are: Festival dolls: hina-ningyo, musha-ningyo, tableau dolls Display dolls: saga-ningyo, gosho-ningyo, isho-ningyo, iki-ningyo Wood dolls: kamo-ningyo, nara-ningyo, kokeshi-ningyo Clay dolls: fushimi-ningyo, hakata-ningyo Mechanical dolls: karakuri-ningyo, kobe-ningyo Theatrical dolls: bunraku-ningyo, takeda-ningyo Play dolls: ichimatsu-ningyo, keue saiko

Kokeshi dolls have much of the adorable appeal and charm of the ubiquitous Hello Kitty, but with much more extensive wardrobe. This exotic coloring book features black-outlined drawing of Kokeshi (traditional Japanese wooden dolls), each with its own distinctive costume, signature color, and personal haiku. Kids are invited to color in Kimonos, sashes, fans, and other accessories, accenting their masterpieces with any of 75 stickers. Each spread has one doll with a specific personality trait and favorite color. The yellow spread is Kukiko, whose signature trait, expressed by an accompanying haiku, is joy, and the blue spread introduces Oki, who embodies creativity. It's a high-style book with an affordable price designed to provide hours of absorbing creativity and a dash of cultural flair.

One kokeshi, two kokeshi, three kokeshi, four…. Anna is a Japanese-American girl whose grandparents live in Japan. They have been sending her adorable Kokeshi dolls made of painted wood each year for her birthday since she was very small. The dolls, like people, are all different— and beautiful! In this charming children's book by award-winning author Tracy Gallup, we watch Anna grow up as her Kokeshi collection grows bigger, and we see how these dolls bring Anna and her grandparents closer together as the years pass. Part counting book, part visual narrative, this beautifully-illustrated bilingual picture book shows how simple objects can serve as a bridge between people and cultures on opposite sides of the globe. It also introduces these beautiful dolls and the ways in which they are formed and painted. The story is in Japanese and English, with a free audio recording available online. A note at the end gently explains the history of Kokeshi dolls and why they are made the way they are.

Inspired by a centuries-old Japanese doll-making tradition, these 24 stickers depict a vivid array of female figures in traditional costumes. The colorful stickers will especially appeal to fans of anime and manga.

This little book explains how to crochet little Kokeshi Amigurumi dolls. A basic knowledge of crochet is required. Amigurumi is a Japanese word, meaning a stuffed animal toy usually made from crocheted yarn and having an oversized head. Amigurumi is a combination of the Japanese words “ami”, meaning crocheted or knitted, and “nuigurumi”, meaning stuffed doll. Kokeshi dolls are traditional wooden dolls from northern Japan. They have an enlarged head. You can decorate these little dolls with flowers, bows or ribbons. You can make them as a keychain or decoration. They make a nice gift for Christmas.

Little Kokeshi was bored everyday standing on the shelf at the store. One day, she lost her balance and fell off the shelf into the box on the floor. After a while, the delivery truck came and picked up the box that Kokeshi was in. Oh no! Where will Little Kokeshi go? Little Kokeshi's adventure starts now! Kokeshi dolls are wooden dolls that have been made in the Tohoku region of Japan for over 200 years. There are 11 types of traditional Kokeshi dolls. They have various shapes and pattern and each one is made carefully by craftsmen (Kojin) who have inherited the Kokeshi tradition, technique, and culture.