Naruko Kokeshi Shikishi by Sakurai Shōji | 24 × 27 cm

This vintage Japanese shikishi depicts an elegant Naruko kokeshi with a refined face and richly detailed floral decoration in red, green, yellow and black. The flowers form almost the entire body of the figure, giving the composition a graceful and lively appearance.

The work is signed 櫻井昭二 – Sakurai Shōji. Sakurai Shōji (櫻井昭二, 1927–2011) was the fourth generation of the Sakurai family of Naruko kokeshi artisans. He studied under Ōnuma Iwazō and Sakurai Mannojō and continued the family tradition from Naruko Onsen in Miyagi Prefecture.

The serene face, bold black hair and richly worked floral motifs closely reflect the traditional visual language of Naruko kokeshi.

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.