Vintage Kenichi Murakami Sosaku Kokeshi Husband Wife Pair Box c1960s A1201

Vintage Japanese Sōsaku Kokeshi husband-and-wife pair by renowned artist Kenichi Murakami (村上けん一, 1929–1991). This charming matched couple features Murakami’s characteristic restrained use of color and emphasis on the natural grain of the turned wood.

The female figure has a soft, contemplative expression with closed eyes, a red lacquered body and delicate gold floral decoration. Her companion has an animated round-eyed expression, dark blue body and coordinating gold decoration. Their simplified spherical heads and contrasting expressions give the pair a particularly appealing mid-century modern character.

The red figure bears Murakami’s artist seal on the underside. Accompanied by the original presentation box bearing the 梅堂 (Baidō) label associated with this Murakami pair.

Size: Each  3 3/4" H x 1 3/8" W x 1 3/8" D
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with only minimal age-related wear. Original box included.
Era: Circa 1950s–1960s
Artist: Kenichi Murakami / 村上け
Retail $195