This traditional Yamagata kokeshi is a striking example of the work of Shozan Shido (志藤尚山, 1932–1995), one of the respected figures in the Yamagata kokeshi tradition. Crafted with the elegant proportions and refined brushwork characteristic of the style, this piece embodies both simplicity and delicate beauty.
The doll features a rounded head with softly arched brows and half-moon eyes that convey a serene, introspective expression. The bold side panels of black hair and the radiating red crown flower motif on the sides of the head reflect traditional regional aesthetics. The slender body is meticulously hand-painted with a tall column of richly colored red flowers blooming upward in a vertical composition. The fine black stems and green leaves add a sense of balance and grace to the floral display. Decorative red bands above and below frame the design, and the artist’s signature is inscribed at the base.
Shozan Shido (1932–1995), born in Yamagata Prefecture. His early traditional Dento Yamagata kokeshi are very rare in number. His main artistic activity falls into the Sosaku “creative kokeshi” category. From 1959 onward he is noted to have produced sōsaku‑kokeshi, especially from the 1960s onward.
