Artisan | Woodturner: Kishi Sadao | 岸貞夫

About👤

Year of Birth: 1932 | Ob. 1998

Location: Maebashi, Gunma Prefecture

Kokeshi Style: Sōsaku | 創作こけし

Master:

Apprentice:

Workshop:

Sadao Kishi began his craft in the 1950s, Kishi-san became a leading figure in the Sosaku Kokeshi movement, helping to elevate the dolls from folk art to recognized artistic expression. His innovative works earned him top honors, including the Prime Minister’s Award and the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Award. His works are primarily stamped with his hanko. Larger pieces may also feature his signature and a nameplate, though a carved signature directly into the wood is sometimes seen

Awards🏅

1968 All Japan Kokeshi Competition; Prime Minister's Award

1970 Dedicated to the Meiji Shrine Enshrinement Ceremony as the prefecture's representative

1974 All Gunma Modern Kokeshi Competition; Gunma Prefectural Governor's Award

1977 All Gunma Modern Kokeshi Competition; Prime Minister's Award

1978 All Gunma Modern Kokeshi Competition; Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Award

1979 All Gunma Modern Kokeshi Competition; Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Award

1980 All Gunma Modern Kokeshi Competition; Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Award

1982 All Gunma Modern Kokeshi Competition; Minister of International Trade and Industry Award

1984 All Gunma Modern Kokeshi Competition; Gunma Prefectural Governor's Award

1993 All Gunma Modern Kokeshi Competition; Prime Minister's Award

Other📑

Community gallery: Link

Soulportals gallery: Link

Known signatures: Link

Sources📰

Shibukawa City Board of Education, Lifelong Learning Division. (1998). Creative Kokeshi Doll Exhibition in Shibukawa City: 20th & 5th catalogue, 1994–1998 (Ishihara, Ed.). Shibukawa City & Shibukawa City Board of Education.

Artisan | Woodturner: Kishi Sadao | 岸 貞夫