This charming vintage Sōsaku Kokeshi from Nara represents Uba, the elderly woman from the traditional Japanese legend and Noh play Takasago (高砂). She is depicted with a gently smiling expression, white hair gathered into a small bun, and a softly rounded seated form decorated in muted green, black, and natural wood tones.
In the legend, Uba appears together with the old man Jō as the spirits of two ancient pine trees—one at Takasago and the other at Sumiyoshi. Although the trees grow far apart, they are known as aioi no matsu, “paired pines growing together,” and symbolize enduring love, harmony, fidelity, and a long married life.
Carved with the simplified, expressive style characteristic of creative kokeshi, this piece transforms a classical figure into a warm and approachable folk-art sculpture. Its softly aged surface and restrained colours give it a peaceful, nostalgic character, making it a meaningful decorative object as well as a symbol of devotion and long life.
