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Vintage Naruko kokeshi by Okazaki Jinji (1929–2004)
€37Bid from €35
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Vintage Naruko kokeshi by Okazaki Jinji (1929–2004).
Okazaki Jinji (岡崎仁治) was a highly respected Japanese kokeshi artisan associated with the traditional Naruko style. He is renowned for his refined woodcarving skills and the distinctive, vibrant floral motifs adorning his dolls.
Jinji was born in 1929 in Naruko-cho (Tamazukuri-gun, Miyagi Prefecture), the historic heart of traditional Naruko kokeshi production. He was the eldest son of the renowned woodcarver Okazaki Saikichi.
After graduating from the old Furukawa Junior High School in March 1946, he immediately followed in his father's footsteps, apprenticing under him to fully master the craft of kokeshi making.
Kokeshi dolls created by him (often signed simply "Jinji" (仁治)) are distinguished by their gentle, friendly facial expressions. He decorated the bodies of his traditional dolls with hand-painted, symmetrical chrysanthemum (kiku) patterns in bold red, green, and black. True to the Naruko style, the doll's head emits a squeaking or creaking sound when turned.
Throughout his life, Jinji was deeply committed to preserving the local tradition and held key positions within the Naruko Wood Toys Cooperative. He also trained several talented apprentices. His eldest son, Yasuo Okazaki (born in 1954), began training under his father in 1972 and has since developed into a master craftsman in his own right, upholding the same family tradition.
Okazaki Jinji passed away in 2004. Today, his vintage dolls are sought after by collectors worldwide for their historical value and artistic balance.
The height is 24 cm; please refer to the photos for the condition.
Please note: These items are not new, so there will inevitably be some degree of scratching, discoloration, and/or minor cracks or dents.
Specifications
CategoryDecorative ObjectsConditionGoodColorsMulti ColorMaterialWoodNumber of items1Height24 cmWidth6 cmDepth6 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