Hosaka Torao | 保坂虎男

Year of place of birth are unavailable

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Hosaka Torao (保坂虎男)

The referenced resources do not mention Hosaka Torao, and no publicly available information has been found about this artisan to date. They are included here because they provide context on two other artisans, Hosaka Yukio and Hosaka Tomegorō, who share the same surname and may be related.

Several examples of Hosaka Torao’s work have been added to this site's sōsaku section for reference. The style shows notable similarities to the works of Yukio and Tomegorō, suggesting a possible familial or stylistic connection.

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Additional Details🗒️

A review of historical literature reveals that Kokeshi artisans not only crafted visually appealing objects but also played a vital role in preserving cultural norms, regional traditions, and aesthetic practices through the varied representations of Kokeshi dolls. Notably, the value of these works resides in the artistry of the dolls themselves, as most makers refrained from signing their creations.

The Kokeshi styles created by the artisan are depictions of Saitō Okichi, known as Tojin Okichi (1841–1893), a 19th-century Japanese geisha whose life became emblematic of Japan’s encounter with the West. Amid the country’s opening after Commodore Perry’s arrival, she was linked to Townsend Harris, the first U.S. Consul to Japan. Often portrayed as a tragic figure, Okichi's story is remembered as one of coerced sacrifice, romanticized diplomacy, and the social stigmas faced by women during a time of profound national change.

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Sources

1. Wolf, R., & Evans, M. (n.d.). Artisan: Woodworker: Hosaka, Yukio: 1958-. Mingei Arts. https://mingeiarts.com/collections/artisan-woodworker-hosaka-yukio-1933 With consent from Mingeiarts.com

2. Osg, D., (2024, June 19). Kokeshi Research., Artisan Hosaka. Post on the Online Facebook Group, Kokeshi Village Facebook Group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/Kokeshi.Village/posts/3695505087355834/

3. Yamanaka, N. (1960). In Kokeshi Yearbook 1960 Edition (1960th ed., pp. 15, 79, 80). Aogabo.