About👤

Ohseki Seien-san’s real name is said to be Yae (八重) she was born in Yonezawa City, Japan. She attended the Tokyo Women's Art School*. Published resources indicate that only after the passing of her husband did she begin to create Kokeshi. She graduated from Tokyo Women's Art School and studied Japanese painting under Master Hirafuku Hyakusui (平福 百穂).

Ohseki Seien's unique style and attention to detail made her a standout artist during her time. Her collaboration with the Daimaru Department Store helped bring her work to a wider audience, and the "Hitakami Kokeshi" series remains highly coveted by collectors for its historical significance and craftsmanship.

The connection to the Hitakami region (ancient name for northeastern Japan) adds another layer of depth to Seien's work, as it reflects her appreciation for traditional Japanese culture and nature. The Kokeshi from this series are not only beautiful pieces of art but also serve as a reminder of the rich history and heritage of Iwate prefecture.

Ohseki Seien's legacy as a sōsaku Kokeshi artist continues to be celebrated today, with her works being treasured by collectors around the world for their beauty, craftsmanship and cultural significance.

Awards🏅

N/A

Other📑

Sources

1. Photo Credit: Yamanaka, N., & Toshiya Kano. (1973). Contemporary Kokeshi: The People and Their Works. Kyoei Shobo. Colorized by Soulportals.com
2. Contributor: Young, T. (n.d.). Manoacat [eBay seller profile]. eBay. Retrieved [Aug. 05, 2011], from https://www.ebay.com/usr/manoacat
3. Sato, S. (2005). Kokeshi: The soul of Tohoku folk craft. Tokyo: Iwasaki Bijutsu-sha.
4. Evans, M., & Wolf, R. (2015). Sosaku Kokeshi: a New Look at an Old Tradition. Vermillion Publishing.

*In the 1950s, the "Tokyo Women's Art School" (likely Joshibi University of Art and Design) was a significant institution for women's art education. This was a time of increased participation by women in the arts due to post-WWII reforms promoting gender equality

 

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