A Yamagata kokeshi was crafted by Eiji Aida, a prominent figure in preserving the regional tradition of Yamagata-sakari kokeshi, known for their cylindrical forms and painterly floral decorations. Measuring with a sturdy, gently flaring silhouette, this doll reflects the natural warmth and soft precision that define the Yamagata aesthetic. The face is delicately drawn with narrow eyes, slender brows, and a composed, serene expression. The head is framed by softly rendered black side hair with a red crown band. The body is decorated with Aida’s signature floral motif—a vertical arrangement of plum-like blossoms in red and orange tones with subtle green leaves. The layering and fading of the colors add depth and a painterly effect, making this piece both charming and visually nuanced.
Eiji Aida 会田栄治 born in Yamagata City in 1929, Eiji Aida was the son of Aida Kikuji, a well-known kokeshi craftsman. He inherited the family tradition and began kokeshi-making himself around 1948. Aida trained in both traditional woodturning and brushwork techniques, eventually developing a style that upheld the classical values of the Yamagata kokeshi while showing subtle refinements in facial detail and floral expression. Throughout his career, Aida exhibited in regional and national folk craft events, gaining recognition for the clarity and balance of his work. He continued to produce kokeshi for many decades, contributing greatly to the survival and transmission of the Yamagata style.
