c1960 Sosaku Kokeshi “Fusetu Wind and Snow” 風雪 by Shouzan Shido 志藤尚山 A1220

Shouzan-san is considered by Kokeshi collectors and critics alike to be the most influential artist in the world of Sosaku Kokeshi doll-making, which emerged during the creative period of the ‘60s. He is a multiple winner of the Prime Minister’s Award, among many other awards.

This “Rare Find” exhibits one of Shouzan’s favored design elements: an extensive and repetitive textural treatment called ‘Harmonic Chatter work’. This random texturization enables the artist to produce exquisite yet unique surface treatments to represent the blanket wrap known as a “Kakumaki,” a winter shawl used throughout northern Japan, thrown on quickly to keep the body warm on short outings. The natural qualities of the wood are beautifully brought out with minimal painted ornamentation. That painted surface is seen in the inclusion of a long flowing vermilion neck scarf that wraps around the shoulders and down the front of the body. Her head has a classic hairstyle with a (Mage), and the top of her head complements the wrapped hairstyle and side hair fringes framing the face. She has a small red dot for a nose. Shouzan placed his red Hanko on the bottom of the doll. 

Size: 10 5/8" H x 4" W x 4" D
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with light age-appropriate wear. No chips, major cracks, breaks, or repairs observed.
Era: 1960s
Artist: Shouzan Shido (1932–1995)
Title: “Fusetu Wind and Snow” 《風雪》
SKU: A1220

Price: $592