About👤

A celebrated artisan recognized for his contributions to sōsaku (creative) Kokeshi, a style that prioritizes individual artistic expression over traditional regional forms. His dolls are admired for their imaginative designs, intricate carvings, and a sense of playful elegance. While little publicly verifiable information is available about his life, he is known to have been active in the 1940s, based on early works in the public domain, including a commemorative reunion piece dated 1942.

Yamagishi’s work is characterized by bold, sculptural kimono textures and a vibrant color palette that includes pink, turquoise, orange, and gold. Common decorative motifs include butterflies, sunflowers, and stylized bows, often accompanied by expressive facial features and oversized heads. His dolls are frequently described as emblematic of mid-century Japanese folk art, reflecting the aesthetics of the post-war creative Kokeshi movement. Many pieces are signed on the base, have a seal, or hanko aiding collectors in authenticating the maker.

📝Artisan Lineage Clarification

Two distinct hanko and signatures noted; one for “Yamagishi Masayoshi” and another for “Yamagishi Umeyoshi.” At present, we have not been able to confirm whether they share a familial relationship or if the similarity in names is purely coincidental.

Awards🏅

Unavailable

Other📑

Sources

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