Masao Watanabe – Expressive Sōsaku Kokeshi
Masao Watanabe (渡辺正雄, 1917–2007) was a Japanese kokeshi‑shi from Yonezawa, Yamagata Prefecture,
renowned for his Sōsaku (creative) kokeshi that combine expressive forms and friendly faces.
He is especially known for his "Oya to Ko / Mushin" parent‑and‑child series,
and received several national awards, including the Prime Minister's Award.
Style Highlights:
Rounded or pear‑shaped bodies with solid bases
Gentle faces with soft smiles and large eyes
Simple yet characterful decoration in red, black, and wood tones
Signature 渡辺正雄 on the base, sometimes with a stamp
His dolls are sought after by collectors,
especially signed parent‑child sets in good condition.