What is a Kokeshi Doll?
The first Kokeshi Dolls are dated back to the Edo Era (1603-1868) and were produced in the Northern region of Japan. The wooden figures are strong simplified forms of women or girls, mostly made in a cylindrical shape with round heads. Over the years an own direction of handicraft has emerged, which is specialized in producing only Kokeshi dolls. Needless to say, every region and every designer developed his own style. Originally the Kokeshi were intended as a toy as well as a talisman which was said to bring fertility and abundant harvest. As a gift it is expressing appreciation of your friends and other acquaitances.