Vintage Japanese Kokeshi Doll by Kyutaro Ogura (1906–1998) | Late Work (Age 83) | 29cm Large | Kijiyama Tradition | Signed | Showa Era Folk Art

■Description

A rare late-period work by Kyutaro Ogura (1906–1998), one of the most respected kokeshi artisans of the Kijiyama tradition.

This piece was created when Ogura was approximately 83 years old, representing the culmination of a lifetime devoted to woodturning and hand-painted kokeshi craftsmanship.

Born into a family of master woodworkers in Kijiyama, Akita, Ogura began training under his father from an early age and continued producing kokeshi throughout his life, preserving traditional techniques across generations.

This large 29 cm (11.4 inches) example carries a quiet authority.
The expression is restrained and composed—less decorative, more distilled—reflecting the maturity of his later years.

The hand-painted motifs are bold yet controlled, with a confident rhythm that suggests decades of refinement. The natural wood grain remains visible beneath the surface, adding warmth and authenticity.

Weighing 870g, the piece has a solid presence, indicating high-quality woodturning and material selection.

Signed by the artist.

This is not simply a decorative object—it is a late-life statement by a master artisan, embodying both tradition and personal legacy.

■About the Artist

Kyutaro Ogura was born in 1906 in Kijiyama, Akita Prefecture, into a family of traditional woodworkers.
He trained under his father, Kusiro Ogura, and inherited the family craft at a young age.

Throughout his life, he remained dedicated to kokeshi-making, even as Japan modernized around him.
He became known as a master working under oil lamps in remote mountain regions, preserving traditional methods long after they had disappeared elsewhere.

His later works are especially valued for their simplicity, balance, and depth of expression—distilled from decades of experience.

He passed away in 1998 at the age of 93.

■Product Details

• Artist: Kyutaro Ogura (小椋久太郎)
• Birth–Death: 1906–1998
• Origin: Kijiyama, Akita, Japan
• Style: Kijiyama lineage
• Period: Late work (approx. age 83)
• Height: 29 cm (11.4 inches)
• Weight: 870 g
• Material: Wood
• Signature: Hand-signed

■Condition

Excellent vintage condition.
Minor signs of age consistent with its history.
No major cracks or structural damage.

■Why This Piece Stands Out

• Rare late-life work (crafted around age 83)
• Large 29 cm size with strong display presence
• Solid weight (870g) indicating quality craftsmanship
• Authentic signed piece from a recognized Kijiyama master
• Refined, minimal expression characteristic of mature works

■Shipping

Carefully packaged and shipped from Japan with full tracking.