Yajirō Kokeshi Shikishi by Kamata Kōichi | 24 × 27 cm

This vintage Japanese shikishi depicts an elegant Yajirō kokeshi, composed in a refined palette of red, dark blue, purple and black. The gentle face, with delicate eyebrows, pale pink cheeks and a subtle smile, is surrounded by distinctive graphic decoration, while stylised flowers and leaves form the body of the figure.

The work is signed 弥治郎系 鎌田孝市 – Yajirō-kei, Kamata Kōichi and bears the artisan's red seal. Kamata Kōichi (鎌田孝市, 1925–2004) was a traditional kokeshi maker from Shiroishi in Miyagi Prefecture. He began learning woodturning from his father, Kamata Bun'ichi, while still a young teenager and later continued the family's tradition within the Yajirō school.

The composition closely reflects the colourful visual language of traditional Yajirō kokeshi. Bright colours, fine horizontal bands and expressive floral motifs are characteristic of the tradition. Here, these elements are freed from the wooden body and translated onto shikishi board, creating an airy composition in which face and ornament combine to suggest the complete kokeshi figure.

An almost identical painted shikishi by Kamata Kōichi is documented on the Japanese collectors' market, featuring the same composition and signature. This particular example itself bears no visible date.

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.