Creative Kokeshi by Sato Kōson with Momiji Motif | 30 cm

This large creative kokeshi by Sato Kōson (佐藤香村) has an elegant elongated silhouette and is decorated with a striking autumn motif of momiji – Japanese maple leaves.

The deep reddish-brown body creates a warm background for three large maple leaves in varying shades of red and orange. Rather than being sharply graphic, the leaves have a more painterly, almost translucent quality that allows some of the natural wood texture to remain visible beneath the decoration.

Above, the large natural wood head creates a strong contrast with the darker body. The asymmetrical black hairstyle, small eyes and delicate pink mouth give the figure a soft and friendly character.

A dark, finely textured section at the neck creates a subtle transition between head and body. At 30 cm tall and weighing 734 g, the piece has a strong sculptural presence while retaining an elegant sense of proportion.

The underside bears the handwritten maker's name 香村 – Kōson.

The motif of changing maple leaves, momiji, is closely associated in Japan with autumn and the beauty of seasonal change. Autumn foliage appears frequently in Kōson's work and is one of the decorative themes for which she is particularly recognisable.

Dimensions
Height: 30 cm
Weight: 734 g
Signature: 香村 on the underside

Discover more about the meaning and history of Creative Kokeshi in our Tamashii Guide.

Every vintage piece in our collection has its own story and bears the marks of its past. Please examine the photographs carefully for an honest impression of its condition and any signs of age or use.