Master SHOICHI SATO Kokeshi, Signed, Hijiori School, Japan 1980s

Description: Thank you for looking. Please visit my other listings of contemporary and antique Japanese art. Master Shoichi Sato 佐藤昭一 (1935 - ), signed. Hijiori School of dento ("traditional") kokeshi. Yamagata prefecture, Japan, circa the 1980s. Work by the prominent artist from the Hijiory tradition of dento kokeshi, the Sato lineage. Sato-san was born in the town of Sendai, Yamahata into a family of traditional kokeshi makers and learned the trade with his grandfather, Shusuke Sato, the founder and Grand Master of the Hijiori School. This figurine is an excellent example of the Hijiory aesthetic vision: the facial expression captivates with its almost mystical power, and the kimono is elegant despite the seemingly primitive chrysanthemum motif. The head material is high grade Giant Dogwood, which is praised by kokeshi artists for its white color, density, and gorgeous grain. The figurines feel solid and massive. This vintage item is well preserved. Height: approximately 9.5 inches Weight: 0.6 lbs (268 g) Shoichi SatoSato-san was born in 1935 in Sendai into a family of traditional kokeshi makers; he is the eldest son of Master Sato Minosuke. He started learning the trade with his grandfather, Shusuke Sato, the founder and Grand Master of the Hijiori School.In 1954, Sato-san graduated from Miyagi Prefectural Technical High School, Woodworking Department, and in 1958, he graduated from Tohoku Gakuin University, Faculty of Economics. Alongside his studies, he tried himself in film making. Following his studies, he returned to his home town and completed full apprenticeship in kokeshi making with his father.He began working independently in the summer of 1963. Later, following the suggestion of a Tokyo merchant, he devoted a large part of his career to creating kokeshi in the style of his grandfather. The Hijiori SchoolThe Hijiori-style kokeshi originated in Yamagata prefecture, at Hijiori Onsen, and at Sendai city, and is inspired by the two older kokeshi-making traditions, Naruko and Togatta.Hijiori were first developed by Shusuke Sato, who moved from Togatta to the Hijiori ansen. His dolls had very distinctive facial features and head decorations. The main characteristics of Hijiori dolls are a straight body, beveled shoulders, and, often, a squeeze-in head joint, similar to Naruko dolls. The large heads remind of the Togatta tradition. The double eyelids are typical.Hijiori dolls are found in two styles: one with the body painted with chrysanthemums and divided by a narrow obi, and one with the body decorated with a 'spray' formation of flowers. The yellow color is frequently used to paint the ground of the body. In some instances, maple leaves can also be incorporated.Because fewer of these dolls have been created, than the other styles, Hijiori kokeshi are highly popular among kokeshi collectors and command somewhat higher prices. For shipping outside of US, please inquire. K317

Price: 48 USD

Location: New York, New York

End Time: 2024-12-07T18:09:00.000Z

Shipping Cost: 11.75 USD