Naruko kokeshi by Yusa Fukuju is a beautifully balanced example of one of Japan's most iconic kokeshi traditions. With its clean lines, warm natural tones, and floral motifs, the doll captures the essence of Naruko craftsmanship, which emphasizes both simplicity and refinement.
The doll features a well-rounded head and a slender, slightly flared body. Its serene face is painted with a gentle expression—arched eyebrows, half-moon eyes, and a subtle smile—all framed by stylized side hair in bold black strokes. The body is adorned with Yusa’s characteristic chrysanthemum-like floral motifs in soft red hues, gracefully repeated in vertical arrangement. The overall finish of the wood showcases a fine polish, allowing the grain to remain visible, giving it both texture and warmth.
Yusa Fukuju was born in Naruko Onsen, a renowned hot spring town in Miyagi Prefecture, and one of the major centers of traditional kokeshi production. He began his training in 1953 under the master artisan Satō Tatsuo (佐藤達雄), who himself was a prominent figure in the Naruko kokeshi lineage. Fukuju developed a distinctive style known for its neatly painted features and symmetrical floral motifs, and his work was often described as both graceful and precise. He was active throughout the mid to late 20th century, and his dolls were highly regarded by collectors and enthusiasts of traditional folk art. Fukuju continued to produce kokeshi until the final years of his life, preserving and refining the classic Naruko form with consistent quality.
