This heartwarming Sōsaku Kokeshi by Sōgen (草玄) portrays a tender moment of rural life, a young countryside girl lovingly carrying a baby on her back. Dressed in a vibrant traditional outfit with a deep blue cape adorned with cheerful white flowers, she exudes the gentle strength and warmth of Japan’s rural women. Her outfit is completed by a charming cotton headwrap painted with meticulous detail, capturing the essence of traditional farm attire.
The figure is masterfully hand-painted with a joyful and innocent expression, holding a small infant peeking from behind her shoulder — a symbol of nurturing and familial devotion. The use of color, textile-inspired patterns, and the expressive carving give this kokeshi a charming narrative quality rarely found in mass-produced pieces.
The doll is titled 「おしん」 (Oshin), inspired by the beloved Japanese TV drama of the same name, which depicts the perseverance of a young girl growing up in the countryside. The drama became an iconic representation of Japanese resilience, particularly women’s roles in family and society, a theme beautifully captured in this kokeshi.
This piece is accompanied by its original signed wooden plaque (tanzaku) and boxed packaging, making it a collectible ideal for gifting or display.
