This kokeshi doll is a traditional Japanese wooden doll consisting of only a head and a body. This particular doll, made by Chushichi Saito (b. 1917), is of the Tsuchiyu type: the body is thick and very stable. The branch from which the doll was made has been left uncarved except for shoulders, neck, and head. The doll features red, purple, and black bands at the neck/shoulder; the face features double-lidded eyes with large eyeballs, an elongated cat-like nose, and a small mouth. The cap painted on top of the head consists of two black concentric circles with a colorless innermost circle. There is a red bow design at the doll's temples.
Kokeshi are traditional Japanese dolls distinctive for their lack of arms and legs. Kokeshi are often painted red and black, occasionally with yellow as well. They originated as souvenirs for visitors to the hot springs of the Tōhoku region in northern Japan during the Edo period (1600-1868). There are several distinct types of kokeshi according to size, shape, facial details, and so on, each associated with a different onsen (hot spring) of that area. Most kokeshi are signed and dated on the base.
Tsuchiyu is a hot spring resort near Fukushima, Japan. Tsuchiyu kokeshi dolls typically have thinly drawn lines on the body and very seldom feature additional floral patterns. They are also known for their double-lidded eyes, small heads with slender bodies, and red bow and loop at the temples.
