Introducing our Urara creative kokeshi doll by Japanese artist, YAMAGISHI Umeyoshi. With its orange kimono and hand-painted floral detailing, this kokeshi showcases an adorable girl with a painted orange bob. Her name, Urara (うらら), is a popular female given name which means ‘Bright’, reflecting the little patch of sunshine she brings to any room.  As a lovely footnote in its unique history, the handwritten kana on the bottom of this kokeshi reads 「ヨリたかお 」which means “from Takoa” so we know that this was once gifted by Tokoa-san to someone special in their lives. 
 
Whether displayed as a stand-alone decorative piece or the newest addition to a collection, this kokeshi doll brings a sweetness any space. This vintage kokeshi doll was crafted from solid wood, adorned with lacquer and hand-painted details, and is in good vintage condition with only very slight fading. Please review all photographs and feel free to reach out with any inquiries.
 
 
What is a Kokeshi doll?
Kokeshi dolls, originating from the northeastern region of Japan, have been cherished for over 150 years as children's toys. Handmade from wood (often Kousa dogwood) that has typically been dried for 6–12 months, these dolls feature a simple trunk and head with delicate painted lines to highlight the face. They are typically adorned with floral and ring designs in red, black, and occasionally other colors like green, purple, blue, or yellow ink, and then coated with a layer of wax. Traditional styles of kokeshi dolls are characterized by their long and narrow shape, an absence of arms or legs, and color patterns that have been passed down and preserved. 'Creative kokeshi', on the other hand, is another style created with free and creative ideas without being bound to traditional or regional styles. Since the 1950s, makers have signed their kokeshi dolls, often on the bottom and sometimes on the back.