This traditional Naruko kokeshi attributed to Takahashi Takezo 高橋武蔵 (1888–1969) embodies the early, unembellished beauty of classic Naruko craftsmanship.
The doll presents a simple yet dignified form, with a rounded head and a straight, slightly tapering body. The face is delicately rendered with fine, arched eyebrows, gently closed eyes, and a small, softly smiling mouth, conveying a quiet warmth. Faint blush on the cheeks enhances the lifelike expression. The hair is painted in a deep black, with a softly scalloped fringe and subtle red accents at the crown, characteristic of early Naruko styles.
The body is decorated with understated, hand-brushed maple leaves motifs. Compared to later, more vivid Naruko pieces, the decoration here is restrained, allowing the natural wood grain and warm patina to take prominence. The lower portion is largely undecorated, emphasizing the elegant simplicity of the form and the aging beauty of the wood.
Born on November 29, 1888, in Naruko, Takezo (also read Musashi) Takahashi was the eldest son of Kamezaburo Takahashi, a farmer who practiced woodturning as a side craft. He learned turning techniques from his father and began making and selling kokeshi as early as 1902, at just 15 years old. After the devastating Naruko flood of 1910, he traveled to Kaminoyama, working under Komatsu Tomosaburo, and later visited regions such as Miyajima, Hakone, and Togatta to further refine his skills.
Size: 5 x 5 x 18cm
