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Encyclopedia ID 355

Kokeshi doll painting

Also known as こけし

Kokeshi doll painting: photograph by Batholith
Photo: Batholith, Public domain, source on Wikimedia Commons

Turn and paint a lathe-shaped wooden doll in the style of regional families (bold stripes, floral motifs, face brush).

Heritage note

Part of the living heritage of Japan. Some forms of this practice carry deep meaning for the communities who keep it; here we describe the play and the craft only, with respect for its roots.

Origins

A living tradition passed from person to person; it is not tied to a single dated origin. It belongs to the cultural world of Japan and Korea.

Sources

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