Kokeshi with Long Hair

Kokeshi are minimalist Japanese dolls made of a simple trunk and head, with no arms or legs. They are thought to originate in the Tohoku region of Japan during the late Edo period, when local farmers would come to the hot springs for a soak and bring back the toys for their children. Now Kokeshi are popular collectibles, exchanged as a token of friendship and displayed at home to bring peace and prosperity. 

Japanese-American painter and designer Lisa Holt-Hodsdon and her husband, wood-turner Jacob Hodsdon, combine their talents to create these beautiful Kokeshi together from tree to finished doll.  Inspired by the natural movement and characteristics of the wood such as tiny burls and limbs, the artists coax out the individual personality and spirit of each one. 

• Ash wood 
• 5 ½ inches tall 
• Made in Ithaca, New York