Here’s an unusual and likely unique pair of Japanese hand-carved and hand-painted Kokeshi Dolls- one of Japan’s most popular antique doll collectibles and unique handicraft forms.

The hand-carved solid cedar wood Daruma is signed on back.

The Daruma doll,also known as a Dharma doll, is a rotund Japanese traditional doll modeled after Bodhidharma, the founder of the Zen sect of Buddhism. These dolls, though typically depict a bearded man (Dharma), vary greatly in color and design depending on region and artist. Though considered an omocha, meaning toy, by some, Daruma has a design that is rich in symbolism and is regarded more as a talisman of good luck to the Japanese. Daruma dolls are seen as a symbol of perseverance and good luck, making them a popular gift of encouragement.

Daruma: 4 inches tall and 3.5 inches diameter

The hand-carved and hand-painted bird, likely an eagle or bird of prey, is attractively rendered and skillfully painted. It is signed on back

Bird: 7.5 inches tall and 3.5 inches diameter

Provenance: These come from an amazing 50 year old collection of over 200 kokeshi dolls acquired in Central Japan

About Kokeshi Dolls:
Kokeshi are a popular form of Japanese dolls, originally from northern Japan. They can date back to the earliest part of the 20th century. Old antique examples are widely collected and typically hand carved and hand painted from wood with a simple trunk and an enlarged head. The heads are simply painted with a few lines to define the face. The body may have a variety of designs including florals and flora painted in red, black, and sometimes yellow, and covered with a layer of wax. One characteristic of kokeshi dolls is their lack of arms or legs. The bottom or sides are typically marked with the signature of the artist. Old antique specimens can sell for as little as twenty five dollars a piece to many hundreds of dollars for master works.