Vintage Japanese Kokeshi Doll (7") — Signed “Shoju” 昇寿 | Traditional Wooden Folk Art | 1950s–1960s

ABOUT THIS FIND

Bring a touch of Japanese folk tradition to your space with this vintage kokeshi doll, a beautifully simple wooden form with hand-painted features.

Kokeshi dolls originated over 150 years ago in Japan’s Tohoku region, first as children’s toys and later as treasured souvenirs and display pieces.

This doll stands 7 inches tall and is signed on the base with 昇寿 (Shoju)—commonly read as “rising longevity” and/or used as an artist name.

DETAILS

  • Type: Traditional kokeshi doll (wooden folk craft)
  • Origin: Japan (Tohoku folk style inspiration)
  • Era: 1950s–1960s (estimated)
  • Signature/Mark: Signed on base: 昇寿 (Shoju)
  • Materials: Handcrafted wood with painted design
  • Pre-ship weight: 7 oz 

MEASUREMENTS (Approx.)

  • Height: 7 in
  • Head diameter: 2 in
  • Base diameter: 1.25 in

CONDITION

Vintage condition with gentle age-appropriate wear. Please review photos closely for surface marks, finish wear, and character—this is part of the charm of a true vintage piece.

Display Ideas

Lovely on a bookshelf, desk, or in a curated Japandi / MCM display. Great gift for collectors of Japanese folk art and vintage decor.

Disclaimer

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

While I do my best to capture colors accurately, your monitor or device 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.