Sansaku Sekiguchi – Master of Sōsaku Kokeshi

Sansaku Sekiguchi (関口三作, 1925–2018) was one of the most influential and highly respected kokeshi-shi within the Sōsaku (creative) Kokeshi movement. Born in Shintō, Gunma Prefecture, he developed a style that brought together traditional Kokeshi forms and modern artistic freedom in an exceptionally balanced way.

His work is defined by purity of form, technical mastery, and a deep sense of harmony. Over the course of his career, Sekiguchi received the Prime Minister's Award multiple times, recognizing his outstanding contribution to the evolution of creative Kokeshi.

Stylistic characteristics

• Elongated, elegant forms with perfectly balanced proportions

• Refined faces with a serene expression or gentle smile

• Nature motifs such as cherry blossoms, camellia, and autumn leaves

• Restrained, thoughtful use of color in harmony with the wood

• Signature: 関口三作 or 三作, usually brush-signed on the base

Collectability

Kokeshi by Sansaku Sekiguchi are regarded as high points of the Sōsaku tradition.
They are highly sought after by collectors worldwide for their timeless elegance, technical excellence, and historical importance within Japanese Kokeshi art.