Japan, mid 20th century
Turned wood, 28.5 x 10 cm
Excellent condition, with original box.
A finely proportioned Japanese kokeshi by Akira Kon (Seijū), a leading figure of the sōsaku kokeshi movement. Defined by a pure cylindrical form and restrained hand-painted detail, ornament is reduced to the essential, allowing proportion, grain and balance to take precedence.
Titled Oshinobi Dōchū (Travelling Incognito), the figure is distinguished by its broad travelling hat, a sculptural counterpoint to the slender vertical form. Subtle brushwork and areas of dark pigment further emphasise its elongated geometry.
Quietly expressive and remarkably economical in form, the piece demonstrates the ability of sōsaku kokeshi to move beyond folk tradition towards distinctly modern sculpture.
Japan, mid 20th century
Turned wood, 28.5 x 10 cm
Excellent condition, with original box.
A finely proportioned Japanese kokeshi by Akira Kon (Seijū), a leading figure of the sōsaku kokeshi movement. Defined by a pure cylindrical form and restrained hand-painted detail, ornament is reduced to the essential, allowing proportion, grain and balance to take precedence.
Titled Oshinobi Dōchū (Travelling Incognito), the figure is distinguished by its broad travelling hat, a sculptural counterpoint to the slender vertical form. Subtle brushwork and areas of dark pigment further emphasise its elongated geometry.
Quietly expressive and remarkably economical in form, the piece demonstrates the ability of sōsaku kokeshi to move beyond folk tradition towards distinctly modern sculpture.
