This is an early work by RYOKA Aoki, one of the very few female kokeshi artisans of the time recognized as an established and successful artist.
Handcrafted, carved and painted, this refined kokeshi is called "Hinagiku" which in Japanese means "Daisy" and takes its name from the flowers depicted on her splendid kimono.
Hinagiku has a curious story that made it extraordinarily popular: in 1969 it was chosen and purchased by Princess Michiko (empress and consort of Emperor Akihito from 1989 to 2019), she fell in love with it and since then it has become one of the most famous and sought-after kokeshi in Japan.
in japanese tradition, the daisy is a symbol of
"purity," "beauty," "peace," and "hope" and is particularly suitable for weddings or as a gift for a loved one.
It stands out for its elegant hairstyle adorned with a charming red bow and for the presence of an arm, an unusual detail among kokeshi.
It also stands out for its refined floral motifs painted in ivory, gold and red tones and for the great communicative power underlined by the dreamy pose and the eyes with very long lashes.
The line is clean and stylized and the right hand that reaches for her face gives her a reserved and nostalgic air.
