When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Exceptional vintage Japanese Sōsaku (Creative) Kokeshi pair, attributed to acclaimed award-winning artist Tamura Chie (田村千栄) of Tamura Kōgei.
This unusual pair consists of two, largest approximately 10-inch-tall, wooden kokeshi figures permanently mounted together on their original wooden display stand.
The bodies have an unusual rough, granular/chattered texture, contrasted with smooth, brightly painted areas. One figure features a striking red-and-yellow flower with a long red vertical accent; the companion figure has long flowing black-and-gold linear decoration and matching floral elements.
The underside of the original stand retains a Japanese paper label associated with the work. The label identifies 千栄作 (Chie-saku / work by Chie) and includes wording identifying the artist as a recipient of the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Award. Tamura Chie is documented as a multi-award-winning creative-kokeshi artist and as the co-founder, with her husband Tamura Noboru, of Tamura Kōgei in Gunma Prefecture. Her documented awards include the Minister for Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Prize.
The pair remains affixed to the original stand and is not removable. A handwritten inscription on the underside reads “BE NICE TOGETHER,” adding an unusual bit of provenance and charm.
Approximate measurements:
Tallest figure: approximately 10" tall
Approximately 3½" maximum diameter
Complete mounted pair with original wooden stand
Condition:
Very good vintage condition overall, with expected minor age-related wear to the wood and painted surfaces. The textured surface is intentional artistic work and should not be mistaken for damage. Please examine all photographs carefully, as the photographs are part of the condition description.
This is a particularly unusual example of Japanese creative kokeshi and is being offered as a complete pair with its original stand and label.
A wonderful addition to a collection of Japanese folk art, Sōsaku kokeshi, modern Japanese woodcraft, or Tamura Chie works.
Item Specifics
Brand/Maker: Tamura Chie/ Tamura Kōgei
Artist: Tamura Chie (田村千栄)
Type: Sōsaku / Creative Kokeshi
Country/Region of Manufacture: Japan
Material: Wood
Era: Vintage Japanese, likely Showa-period
Subject: Stylized Couple / Figures
Quantity: Pair
Original Stand: Yes
Signed/Marked: 千栄作 on associated label
Award-related label: Yes
Handmade: Yes
Condition: Used/Vintage — see photographs
