Authentic Vintage Togatta Kokeshi – Yoshio Ogasawara (Autobiographical Item)

Unique collector's item — once sold, it will not be restocked. This authentic Dento Kokeshi from the prestigious Togatta tradition was crafted by master Yoshio Ogasawara. This particular piece is distinguished by a rare autobiographical inscription on the underside, where the artist noted his age of 57 years at the time of its creation.

With its elegant proportions, refined brush painting, and personal signature, this Kokeshi is not only a traditional Japanese folk art object but also a unique document within the oeuvre of a recognized Kokeshi master.

• ✓ Authentic Dento Kokeshi: Traditionally crafted within the Togatta lineage.
• ✓ Master Craftsman: Signed by Yoshio Ogasawara.
• ✓ Rare Autobiographical Inscription: The underside states '五十七才' (57 years), referring to the maker's age during its creation.
• ✓ Traditional Material: Turned from Japanese Mizuki wood.
• ✓ Refined Decoration: Featuring hand-painted chrysanthemums (Kiku), bluish-green leaves, and a classic Togatta Tehen crown motif.
• ✓ Includes: Official certificate of authenticity from 1stbuddha.

Tradition & Symbolism

The Togatta school is one of Japan's oldest and most revered Kokeshi traditions. Its elegant, slender body shape and refined paintings are characteristic of this historical style, where simplicity and harmony are central.

• Tehen Crown: The red radiant halo motif on top of the head is a classic characteristic of the Togatta lineage.
• Chrysanthemums (Kiku): The richly painted flowers symbolize longevity, dignity, and happiness in Japanese culture.
• Personal Document: The addition of the maker's age makes this piece exceptional within Yoshio Ogasawara's oeuvre and increases its historical collector's value.
• Traditional Craftsmanship: Each brushstroke is applied by hand according to the ancient techniques of Dento Kokeshi production.

Authenticity & Condition

This Kokeshi is in excellent preserved vintage condition and possesses all the characteristics collectors seek in traditional Japanese folk art.

• Original Mizuki Wood: Over the years, the wood has developed a warm natural patina.
• Clear Painting: The red, black, and bluish-green pigments have remained excellently preserved.
• Signed: Features the original signature of Yoshio Ogasawara.
• Rare Inscription: The autobiographical age notation '五十七才' makes this piece particularly documentary.
• Excellent Collector's Condition: Free from structural damage with only minimal signs of wear consistent with its age.

Specifications

• Object: Dento Kokeshi
• Artist: Yoshio Ogasawara (小笠原義雄)
• Tradition: Togatta lineage (遠刈田系)
• Dating: ca. 1987
• Material: Japanese Mizuki wood
• Height: 15 cm
• Diameter: 3 cm
• Feature: Autobiographical age inscription '五十七才' (57 years)
• Condition: Very good vintage condition with beautiful natural patina.

Each object is examined before it is offered: material, casting or carving technique, surface, and signs of age are compared with documented references. You will receive a certificate of authenticity and an official invoice detailing the period, material, and available provenance.

How we verify authenticity

Fully insured worldwide shipping in museum-quality packaging. Returns are sent to our Dutch address and you have a 14-day cooling-off period.

Read the shipping policy and the refund policy.

Pay securely at checkout with credit card, Klarna, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. The certificate of authenticity and the invoice are included in the price.