Hand-Signed Vintage Japanese Creative Kokeshi Doll by Ōta Tamotsu (太田保)
A beautifully restrained example of post-war Japanese folk art, this hand-signed Creative Kokeshi doll by Ōta Tamotsu captures the quiet confidence of an artist working at the height of the Sōsaku movement.
Key Features
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Authentic vintage Japanese Creative (Sōsaku) Kokeshi doll
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Hand-signed on the body by artist Ōta Tamotsu (太田保)
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Clearly inscribed with saku (作) — “made by”
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Mid-20th-century Japanese folk art collectible
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Crafted from solid cherry or dogwood wood
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Traditional Tōhoku influence with Creative freedom
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Free-hand painted floral and banded motifs
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Visible natural wood grain beneath painted surfaces
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Highly collectible signed example by a named artist
Full Description
This hand-signed vintage Japanese Creative Kokeshi doll is an authentic work by Ōta Tamotsu (太田保), a recognised 20th-century maker associated with the Sōsaku (Creative) Kokeshi movement. Signed pieces such as this mark an important shift in Kokeshi history, where individual artists moved beyond anonymous regional production and began asserting personal authorship.
The doll is inscribed with the artist’s name alongside the character 作 (saku), meaning “made by” — a traditional form of signature that confirms both authorship and authenticity. This places the piece firmly within the post-war era, when Creative Kokeshi emerged as sculptural folk art rather than utilitarian children’s toys.
Crafted in Japan’s Tōhoku region, the form remains rooted in tradition: a cylindrical body paired with a softly rounded head, carefully turned from seasoned cherry or dogwood wood. The surface is decorated with free-hand painted motifs, combining stylised florals, rhythmic bands, and subtle tonal contrasts. The artist allows areas of natural wood grain to remain visible, giving warmth and balance to the composition.
Ōta Tamotsu’s work is characterised by restraint rather than excess — clean lines, harmonious proportions, and an emphasis on material honesty. The painted finish is waxed to preserve both colour and surface, while the minimalist facial features lend the doll a calm, contemplative presence.
Signed Creative Kokeshi by named artists are especially prized by collectors, as they document the evolution of Japanese folk art during the mid-20th century and reflect the growing recognition of Kokeshi as collectible sculptural objects.
Dimensions
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Height: 36 cm
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Width: 10 cm
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Depth: 10 cm
Materials
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Solid cherry wood or dogwood
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Hand-applied traditional paints
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Lathe-turned and hand-finished
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Waxed protective surface
Condition
This vintage Kokeshi doll shows gentle signs of age, including minor surface wear, soft fading, and small marks consistent with time and use. These elements contribute to its authenticity and character. Overall condition is good and entirely commensurate with age. Unless otherwise stated, any props or accessories shown are not included.
Origin / Period
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Artist: Ōta Tamotsu (太田保)
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Origin: Japan, Tōhoku region
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Period: 20th Century
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Provenance: Hand-signed by the artist
Styling Suggestions
Display as a sculptural focal point on open shelving, a console, or within a curated collection of Japanese art. Its vertical form and restrained palette suit Japandi, minimalist, wabi-sabi, and modern interiors. Equally appropriate for collectors or as a refined cultural gift with documented authorship.
FAQ
Who was Ōta Tamotsu?
Ōta Tamotsu was a 20th-century Japanese artist associated with the Creative (Sōsaku) Kokeshi movement, known for signed works that blend traditional form with individual expression.
What does the signature mean?
The inscription reads Ōta Tamotsu saku (太田保作), meaning “made by Ōta Tamotsu,” confirming authenticity and authorship.
Is this a traditional or Creative Kokeshi?
This is a Creative (Sōsaku) Kokeshi, allowing greater artistic freedom while still drawing influence from Tōhoku regional styles.
Unique Points
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Named and signed Japanese Kokeshi artist
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Authentic Sōsaku movement example
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Clear artist attribution and provenance
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Decorative object and collectible artwork
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Strong appeal to collectors of Japanese folk art
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