Kiyohara Takao – Pioneer of Shingata Kokeshi

Kiyohara Takao (清原高雄, ca. 1916 – d. unknown) was a Japanese kokeshi-shi who played an important role in the development of Shingata Kokeshi, a style positioned between traditional forms and the creative freedom of the Sōsaku Kokeshi movement.

His work is known for combining clean, classical silhouettes with bold decorative elements, placing floral motifs and graphic patterns at the forefront. Kiyohara Takao successfully renewed traditional Kokeshi forms while preserving their recognizability, resulting in work with a strong and timeless visual identity.

He received a Prime Minister's Prize in recognition of his craftsmanship and his contribution to the artistic evolution of Kokeshi.

Stylistic characteristics

• Slender, traditional forms with playful decorative accents

• Floral and leaf motifs, sometimes combined with horizontal striping

• Warm color palette with natural wood tones, red, and black

• A balanced interplay between graphic simplicity and ornamentation

• Signature: 清原高雄 or 清原, usually brush-signed on the base

Collectability

Kokeshi by Kiyohara Takao are sought after by collectors for:

• their clearly recognizable Shingata style

• the harmonious blend of tradition and creativity

• well-preserved examples with a clear signature

His work represents an important milestone in the evolution of Shingata Kokeshi and is appreciated for its decorative strength and refined balance.