vintage kokeshi by Sato Suigai

With its head at a gentle tilt, this kokeshi by Sato Suigai looks as though it might have nodded off. A deep purple robe and simple floral decoration suit the quiet mood.

Born Sato Sadahachi in Gunma in 1920, Suigai trained in Japanese painting before beginning creative kokeshi in 1949. Suigai established the Suigetsu workshop in 1953 and received the Prime Minister’s Award in 1966. Maker’s seal on the base.