Genji Imaizumi Tsuchiyu Kokeshi Doll Signed 18 Inch Traditional Japanese Wooden Folk Art Figure

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This signed Genji Imaizumi Tsuchiyu Kokeshi Doll is an 18 inch traditional Japanese wooden folk art figure handcrafted in the Tsuchiyu style of Fukushima Prefecture and hand signed on the base by the artisan.

With its tall cylindrical body, expressive smiling face, and hand painted lathe turned striping, this larger display piece reflects one of Japan's best known regional Kokeshi traditions. Its substantial size makes it a striking shelf or cabinet display for collectors of Japanese folk art and handcrafted wooden objects.

Details

  • Item: Traditional Kokeshi doll
  • Item Type: Hand turned wooden folk art doll
  • Era: Mid to late 20th century
  • Materials: Turned and painted wood
  • Color: Natural wood, red, black, gold
  • Maker and Mark: Hand signed on base. 土湯 (Tsuchiyu). 今泉源治 作 (Made by Genji Imaizumi)
  • Pattern or Model: Tsuchiyu style Kokeshi
  • Style: Traditional Japanese folk art
  • Dimensions: 18 inches tall. Head 5 inches long and approximately 4 inches diameter. Body 13 1/2 inches tall.
  • Special Features: Hand signed base, removable head, lathe turned stripe decoration, smiling hand painted face

Condition Grade: Good

Positives

  • Graded Good: Displays beautifully with light signs of careful age and handling.
  • Original painted decoration remains bright with attractive gloss.
  • Handwritten artisan signature is present and legible on the base.
  • Wood grain is attractive throughout the figure.

Issues / Wear

  • Light finish wear and scattered surface scuffs are visible under close inspection.
  • Minor finish wear is visible on the top of the head.
  • Small age related marks are present but no cracks or repairs were found in the photos.

Condition Grade Key

  • Near Fine: Almost perfect. Very minor signs of age only.
  • Very Good: Shows light use. Sound and attractive with minor flaws.
  • Good: Complete and intact. Noticeable wear consistent with age and use.
  • Fair: Shows significant wear. Readable or usable but clearly used.

Collector's Notes

Tsuchiyu Kokeshi dolls are one of the traditional regional styles of Japanese folk art and are known for their elegant proportions and lathe turned decorative striping.

This signed example will appeal to collectors of Japanese folk art, Kokeshi dolls, and handcrafted wooden sculpture.

The signature of Genji Imaizumi makes this piece especially worth noticing because collectors often seek dolls made by recognized artisans.

Its larger 18 inch size gives it an impressive display presence while preserving the clean, simple character that makes traditional Kokeshi so enduring.

Shipping + Trust (Reading Vintage standards)

∙Photo-verified condition (no surprises)
∙Packed with our protective packaging standard
∙Ships in 1 business day
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Disclaimer

All items are vintage and may show signs of age, wear, or use consistent with their history. Photos show the exact condition of each piece—please review them carefully, as they are part of the description. 

While I do my best to capture colors accurately, your monitor or device screen may display colors slightly differently from the actual item.

Please Note:
These pieces come from estate collections and have been surface cleaned. You may wish to perform additional cleaning depending on your preference.

Good to Know Before You Buy

Yes. Every photo on this page is the actual item you will receive. Not a stock photo, not a similar copy. What you see is what ships.

Honestly. This is vintage, so expect some age. When I find wear, writing, stains, loose pages, chips, or missing pieces, I note them and show them in the photos. Some marks add character. Some are just flaws. I tell you which is which so you can decide if this is the right one for you.

With care. Old books and fragile pieces are wrapped and boxed so they arrive the way they left me. Careful packing is one of the things buyers mention most in their reviews. Orders of $35 or more ship free.

Probably not. Everything here is one of a kind, and I rarely find the same item twice. Once it sells, it is gone. Vintage does not restock neatly.