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This compact set by Sato Kōson (佐藤幸尊) is entitled "Shōfuku" (招福), a term associated with inviting or welcoming good fortune.
The two figures are built from simple rounded forms and natural wood, accented with bold calligraphy in green and red. Their broad smiles and open expressions give the pair a distinctly cheerful character.
A particularly playful feature is that the heads rest freely on the bodies and can be rotated. This allows the composition to change depending on how the figures are positioned: facing one another, turning away or simply standing side by side. That sense of movement fits beautifully with the positive meaning of Shōfuku.
The set is also remarkably complete. It comes with the original box, wooden display base, nameplate and extensive Japanese documentation.
Among the papers is an original promotional newspaper supplement dated 14 October 1998, devoted to the Shōfuku Kokeshi. It discusses the background of the design, its inspiration from the shape of a kendama, its production in Koori, Fukushima, and the symbolism of the smiling faces. The reverse contains workshop information and a route map for Kōson Kōgei.
Additional documents refer to the registered design, the different sizes in which the Shōfuku Kokeshi were produced and further calligraphic texts.
The combination of humour, symbolism and unusually complete documentation makes this not only a decorative set, but also a particularly well-preserved piece of modern kokeshi history.
Dimensions
Small kokeshi: 12 cm high – 275 g
Large kokeshi: 13 cm high – 368 g
Total weight: 643 g
Original box: included
Wooden display base: included
Nameplate: included
Documentation: extensive and original
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.
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