A beautiful vintage Naruko kokeshi (鳴子こけし) handcrafted by Yusa Fukuju (遊佐福寿), a respected artisan from Naruko Onsen, one of the most celebrated centres of traditional kokeshi making in Japan.
The body is decorated with vivid traditional floral motifs, featuring striking red blossoms and stylised foliage that stand out against the natural wood grain. The red collar and base bands further enhance the doll’s graceful silhouette and reflect the bright yet balanced decorative style for which Naruko kokeshi are so admired.
Yusa Fukuju born in Naruko Onsen, Yusa Fukuju began his kokeshi-making journey in 1953 as a student of Satō Tatsuo (佐藤達雄), an important figure in the Naruko tradition.
Over the years, he developed a style that remained faithful to classical Naruko forms while revealing his own quiet sensitivity through careful carving and refined brushwork. His kokeshi are known for their soft facial expressions, harmonious proportions, and vibrant yet traditional floral decoration.
Active for nearly five decades, Yusa Fukuju earned the respect of collectors and fellow craftsmen alike. His works are often appreciated as fine examples of the postwar Naruko aesthetic—deeply rooted in tradition, yet enriched with individual warmth and subtle artistry.
