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Vintage Naruko Kokeshi by Akinori Ito
€45Bid from €42
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Private sellerProduct description
Vintage Naruko Kokeshi by Akinori Ito. This Naruko-style kokeshi was made by Akinori Ito (1942– ), a second-generation kokeshi maker from Naruko, one of the most prized regions for traditional kokeshi in Miyagi Prefecture.
Akinori Ito was born on March 19, 1942, in the Akayu district of Naruko-cho and grew up in a family with deep roots in woodworking. His father, Bunshiro Ito, was a local craftsman, and his older brother, Fumihiro Ito, studied with the famous Onuma Chika and established himself as a respected kokeshi maker. In 1960, after completing high school, Akinori began training as a woodworker under the guidance of his brother Fumihiro. Because Fumihiro and his wife Chiyoko had no children, they adopted Akinori, who inherited and continued the family's kokeshi-making tradition. Building on Fumihiro's craftsmanship, Akinori has preserved the essence of the Naruko-style kokeshi, known for its balanced forms, hand-painted chrysanthemum or camellia motifs, and softly expressive faces.
This particular doll is an elegant example featuring the classic Naruko silhouette, a slightly flared body, and a rounded head. The body is adorned with Ito's signature large floral motifs in soft, muted red and green tones—which have since faded over time, adding a layer of nostalgic beauty. The doll's sweetly smiling face, framed by striking black hair with delicate red floral accents, embodies the refined simplicity that characterizes traditional Naruko dolls. The works of Akinori Ito are becoming increasingly rare on the market today and are cherished by collectors for their fidelity to the post-war Naruko tradition and the preservation of the Ito family's craftsmanship legacy.
The height is 30 cm; please view the photos for the condition.
Please note: The items are not new, so there will always be scratches, discoloration, and/or small tears/dents present to a greater or lesser extent.
Specifications
CategoryDecorative ObjectsConditionGoodColorsMulti ColorMaterialWoodNumber of items1Height30 cmWidth8 cmDepth7 cmSigns of usageScratches, Discoloring, StainsSeller locationKerkrade, NetherlandsDelivery optionsDelivery or pickup
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About this seller
Private sellerKerkrade, NetherlandsOn Whoppah since April 2023 • 0 sales