Naruko Kokeshi Shikishi by Kakizawa Koretaka | 1978

This vintage Japanese shikishi from 1978 depicts an elegant, stylised kokeshi whose body is formed almost entirely from flowers and leaves. Deep red floral shapes and dark green to black foliage create a graceful vertical composition, while the serene face with closed eyes and a tiny red mouth gives the figure a gentle, peaceful expression.

The work is signed 是隆 – Koretaka, the name of Kakizawa Koretaka (柿澤是隆, 1940–2016), a traditional kokeshi artisan of the Naruko tradition in Miyagi Prefecture. Koretaka trained under Takahashi Morio and worked in the workshop of Yusa Fukuju from 1964 until 1971 before establishing himself independently. His work remained closely connected to classical Naruko forms and the distinctive floral decoration of the tradition.

Flowers also play a central role in this shikishi. Bold red forms and dark foliage evoke the rich floral decoration associated with Naruko kokeshi, where chrysanthemums are among the recurring motifs. Rather than decorating a wooden body, Koretaka uses the flowers themselves to form the figure, resulting in a composition that is both highly graphic and refined.

The reverse gives the work particularly interesting provenance. Its handwritten inscription records Shōwa 53, February – 1978 and 名鉄展参加記念, which may be translated as "in commemoration of participation in the Meitetsu exhibition." This allows the work to be connected not only to its maker but also to a specific year and exhibition context.

The shikishi board shows light discolouration, small spots and other natural traces of age consistent with its vintage character.

Dimensions: approx. 24 × 27 cm

Would you like to discover more about shikishi and their place within Japanese art and culture? Read more 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.