This Sōsaku Kokeshi, titled Dōjo (童女, "Young Girl"), was created by Takeda Masashi (武田まさし), an artist whose work embodies the quiet elegance of Japan's Sōsaku Kokeshi movement. Rather than following the strict conventions of regional kokeshi traditions, Takeda embraced artistic freedom, creating figures that express emotion through simple forms, thoughtful proportions, and the natural beauty of wood.
Unlike conventional standing kokeshi, this delightful piece features a young girl peeking out from beneath a carved hood, her tiny face framed by softly sculpted hair. With closed eyes and a small crimson mouth, her peaceful expression conveys innocence, warmth, and quiet contemplation. The rounded silhouette and intimate scale give the sculpture a comforting, almost protective presence.
Expertly carved from richly grained wood, the piece celebrates the material itself. The flowing grain is enhanced by a warm natural finish, while delicately carved floral motifs decorate the lower half of the figure, adding texture without overwhelming its minimalist design. Every curve has been carefully shaped to preserve the wood's organic character, making each example subtly unique.
The title Dōjo, meaning "Young Girl," reflects the gentle spirit captured in the sculpture. Rather than portraying a specific individual, the figure evokes universal themes of childhood innocence, serenity, and quiet affection. The hooded form further enhances this sense of comfort, giving the impression of a child peacefully sheltered from the outside world.
This example is accompanied by its original signed presentation box (tomobako), bearing the inscription 「こけし 童女」 and the artist's name, adding to its authenticity and collectability.
Size: 10 x 10 x 17cm
