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Rare 1981 Kazuo Akiyama Zao-Takayu Kokeshi – Exhibition Piece with Provenance
€110Bid from €99
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Private sellerDamme, GermanyOn Whoppah since February 2025 • 3 sales
Product description
Physical Dimensions & Status
Height: 30.7 cm | Diameter: 8.5 cm | Material: Native Japanese hardwood
A unique collector's item — once sold, definitively unavailable again.
This authentic Dento Kokeshi was crafted by the renowned master Kazuo Akiyama (1935–1991) and belongs to the characteristic Zao-Takayu lineage. This piece was selected on May 3, 1981, for the prestigious Shiroishi Kokeshi Competition, a distinctive provenance that rarely appears on the market. The combination of a documented exhibition history, excellent preservation, and refined hand-painting makes this Kokeshi an exceptional collector's item within traditional Japanese folk art.
✓ Authentic Dento Kokeshi: Crafted within the traditional Zao-Takayu lineage.
✓ Renowned master: Handcrafted by Kazuo Akiyama (1935–1991).
✓ Exhibition piece: Officially selected for the Shiroishi Kokeshi Competition.
✓ Exactly dated: May 3, 1981 (Showa 56).
✓ Original documentation: Includes original exhibition sticker and authentic inscriptions on the underside.
✓ Includes: Official certificate of authenticity from 1stbuddha.
Zao-Takayu Tradition
The Zao-Takayu school is known for its elegant proportions, refined facial expressions, and richly detailed floral decorations. Kazuo Akiyama is among the most highly regarded representatives of this tradition and gained recognition for his exceptional craftsmanship and technical precision.
Chrysanthemums (Kiku): The hand-painted red chrysanthemums symbolize happiness, dignity, and longevity within Japanese culture.
Refined Portrait Style: The carefully painted facial features give the Kokeshi a soft, friendly, and distinctive appearance.
Shiroishi Kokeshi Competition: Selection for this renowned exhibition underscores the artistic quality and historical significance of this piece.
Traditional Craftsmanship: Each Kokeshi was individually turned, hand-painted, and personally signed by the master.
Authenticity & Condition
This exhibition piece is in excellent vintage condition and possesses all the characteristics collectors seek in high-quality Dento Kokeshi.
Original Hardwood: The wood has developed a beautiful, even natural patina.
Vibrant Painting: The red, green, and blue-green pigments have been exceptionally well preserved.
Complete Documentation: Both the original inscriptions and the exhibition sticker on the base are present and intact.
Original Signature: Features the authentic signature of Kazuo Akiyama.
Excellent Collector's Condition: Very beautifully preserved with only minimal signs of use consistent with its age.
Specifications
Object: Dento Kokeshi (Exhibition Piece)
Artist: Kazuo Akiyama (秋山一雄)
Tradition: Zao-Takayu lineage (蔵王高湯系)
Dating: May 3, 1981 (Showa 56)
Material: Native Japanese hardwood
Height: 30.7 cm
Diameter: 8.5 cm
Provenance: Officially selected for the Shiroishi Kokeshi Competition
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with original exhibition sticker, signature, and beautiful natural patina.
Additional details:
- Brand: 1stbuddha
- Designer: Kazuo Akiyama
- Style: Zao-Takayu
- Style: Japanse volkskunst
- Material: Japans hardhout
- Colour: blauwgroen
- Period: 1980s
- availability: in_stock
Specifications
CategoryDecorative ObjectsConditionVery goodColorsRed, GreenSeller locationDamme, GermanyDelivery optionsDelivery or pickup
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Seller information
About this seller
Private sellerDamme, GermanyOn Whoppah since February 2025 • 3 sales