Kiku-chan is a charming vintage sōsaku kokeshi featuring a soft natural wood finish and a wonderfully gentle expression, her eyes closed in a calm, peaceful gaze. The artist, believed to be Shiun, has painted her with the palest of pink kimono, decorated with small chrysanthemum, plum, and orchid blossoms along with trailing greenery. Additional tiny floral etching techniques, known as ‘birikanna’ (small carved circles) adorn her rounded Okappa hairstyle, adding a delicate sense of summer beauty.
Her form is smooth and rounded, typical of creative kokeshi, with the wood grain still beautifully visible beneath the paint. The combination of warm tones and soft pastel detailing gives the piece a light, soothing presence; perfect for adding a touch of quiet charm to a shelf or collection.
A sweet and graceful example of vintage hand-painted Japanese folk artistry.
