Robert Joyce of Kazari + Ziguzagu invited Kokeshi expert Kirsten Albrecht into our Prahran showroom to share her passion, insight and wisdom of the highly collectable Japanese ornamental hand-crafted pieces called Kokeshi.
Kokeshi originated from the north of Japan, in the mountainous Tohoku region, a popular hot springs area. Histories tell us that the local wood workers used excess pieces of timber to craft simple toys and teething aids for the local children. During the 1800's when many people started to visit the onsen (hot spring inns) in Tohoku, the toys became popular souvenirs to take home.
Kokeshi can be broadly divided into two types: traditional and creative (sosaku). The traditional kokeshi were first made during the Edo period, though some sources suggest, as early as the 1600's. Certainly by the late 19th Century they had gained popularity throughout Japan and are still made to this day. Sosaku kokeshi production began at the end of the Second World War.
More information can be found on Kokeshi on the Kazari + Ziguzagu website here: www.kazari.com.au/feature/kok...
We are continuously updating our Kokeshi page with more collectable traditional and creative Kokeshis
www.kazari.com.au/antiques-vi...
Thanks to Kirsten Albrecht
Music: Alone in Kyoto by Air
Video: Peter Domankiewicz
Kazari + Ziguzagu can be found at 450 Malvern Road, Prahran, Vic. Australia.
We ship nationally and worldwide. www.kazari.com.au