Kuribayashi Issetsu | 栗林 一雪
1926-2011 Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture
About👤
Kuribayashi-san began making Kokeshi in 1955, and many of his works have received top prizes. His dolls are held in the collection of the Nuremberg Toy Museum in Germany. He served as president of the Yonezawa Miyuki Association.
He lived in a large mansion, on the grounds of which stood a 300-year-old pine tree said to be the “brother” of the one at Uesugi Shrine, which enshrines the feudal lord Uesugi. Kuribayashi-san’s grandfather was a samurai general of the Uesugi clan.
The storehouse adjoining his residence was converted into a personal gallery, reportedly filled with both past and recent works. The space featured a Western-style reception room, a tea room, and a quiet area where he would think, write, and design.
Kuribayashi’s artistic philosophy emphasized depth over surface beauty, striving to convey the inner spirit of Kokeshi. He once said, “I want to breathe life into the Kokeshi, without speaking a word.” This vision is especially evident in his komori piece, which displays both distinctive character and refined craftsmanship.
Awards🏅
Other📑
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.
- Brokop, R. J. (2013). Wood be kindred spirits: The Kokeshi of Robert J. Brokop [Exhibition catalogue]. The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens. (Exhibition held June 4–September 15, 2013). ISBN 1-882865-10-3